Towards Inclusive
Dementia-Friendly Communities
Dementia doesn’t define a person - and neither should stigma or isolation. Quality of life for people living with dementia—each with their own unique story—and their family caregivers is at the heart of everything we do.
Be in the World promotes opportunities for creativity, stimulation and inclusion, and celebrates the family caregivers who show up with dedication and strength.
Because everyone deserves to be seen and supported, and to truly Be in the World.
What We're Working On
Drop-In Centres
We envisage neighbourhoods across Cape Town developing their own dementia-friendly strategies, ideally with vibrant drop-in centres at the heart. These are welcoming spaces shaped by each community where people living with dementia and their family caregivers can connect, learn, move and create together. Over time, these hubs could grow into local one-stop shops, offering support as well as information to everyone, helping to reduce the widespread stigma.
Advocacy
Our human-rights approach to dementia advocacy recognises the social justice issues, such as the gendered nature of home-based care, and dignity. We want dementia-friendly principles woven into everyday life, from boardrooms to the streets.
We’re joining NGOs, government and grassroots organisations to help drive cross-sector change in policy and practice. A truly dementia-friendly city is a tapestry of inclusive communities where every person affected by dementia is heard, valued and supported to fully participate in life.
Training
Dementia often gets left out of mainstream training, so we’re aiming to fill that gap. We’re working with multi-disciplinary teams to develop dedicated modules for group exercise instructors, arts facilitators, and wellness coaches.
The modules will better equip professionals with the practical skills to move towards inclusivity within existing community activities and services. We will also tailor short training sessions for family-based caregivers to boost their confidence and bring new skills into the home to promote more active, fulfilling lifestyles.
What People Say
Now I am more informed on the condition and how to approach it. And now I also know that we are not going through this situation alone. - Rashid
Very informative, very relaxing, enjoyed the exercise and dancing sessions. Just being yourself is very important.
I understand my person living with dementia (plwd) so much better, its enabled me to react far better to the aggression, strong opposition to help etc. As a family we feel better equipped now. We have also had a family meeting to ensure better support for both our parents. - Chantel
The counselling we received about self-care was very important. Learning to take better care of yourself and your family! - Fatima
I struggled with the aggression and mood swings. We were taught to engage, accept and 'play along'. This has been a game changer. My insistence caused far greater negativity and anxiety for both my mom and I.
Her awareness of her condition is difficult for her. We now work together. I understand her so much better now. - Siwe
Favourite part of program? Exercise. Other feedback? More projects like this is needed. - George
What You Can Do
Your contribution helps create a resilient support network, filling critical gaps in care and community connection that families cannot face alone.
Founded in 2024,
Be In The World is based in Cape Town, South Africa
NPO
Registration:
319-786 NPO
Contact Us
admin@beintheworld.org
+27 711 780 156