Animation program raises dementia awareness in CALD groups

The National Ageing Research Institute has launched the next phase of a multi-language program that uses animation to raise awareness about dementia in CALD communities.

The National Ageing Research Institute has launched the next phase of a multi-language program that uses animation to raise awareness about dementia in CALD communities.

Professor Bianca Brijnath

The ADAPT animations, which are available in 10 languages,  encourage preventative action among culturally and linguistically diverse communities by delivering evidence-based information via engaging graphics.

It’s the next step in NARI’s Moving Pictures multi-media project, which aims to make dementia prevention information more inclusive for non-English speaking communities.

The ADAPT project seeks to inform and educate CALD communities about dementia, and encourage lifestyle choices and changes to prevent the onset of the disease.

The animations provide practical tips, as well as information about services that are available to families caring for someone living with dementia.

“With nearly 30 per cent of Australians aged over 65 born overseas, mainly in non-English speaking countries, there are growing concerns that the prevalence of dementia in some CALD communities could increase by more than 650 per cent in the years to come,” NARI Director of Social Gerontology, and head of the ADAPT project, Professor Bianca Brijnath says.

 The animations were developed in response to research showing up to 40 per cent of dementia diagnoses can be prevented by addressing health and lifestyle factors, including increasing physical activity, and maintaining a healthy diet and social connectedness.

“Through ADAPT, we are sharing simple ways individuals can reduce their risk of developing dementia — making good lifestyle choice are central to this. These animations show how easy it can be to make positive change,” Professor Brijnath says.

“Prevention may not always be possible, but everyone needs to be equipped with the information and advice to do what they can. These animations are a vital resource to give CALD communities the knowledge and support they need.”

The ADAPT project is guided by dementia and multicultural peak bodies, community groups, relevant health, community and aged care services as well as consumers. 

The Moving Pictures ADAPT animations are available here.

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Tags: ADAPT, cald, dementia, Moving-pictures, nari,

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