first dementia centre for persons and caregivers opens in singapore

He said: “We need physical facilities such as Dementia Singapore’s centres, where we can have quality programmes and create a safe space to support people living with dementia, as well as their caregivers and family members.

“We also need to thoughtfully design public spaces and neighbourhoods that include dementia-friendly elements such as wayfinding features.”

However, Chee said Singapore also needs to build an inclusive, understanding and respectful society that supports people living with dementia and their families.

He added: “This will help to reduce the stigma associated with dementia.”

In 2023, there were about 74,000 people in Singapore who were living with dementia.

This figure is projected to more than double to an estimated 152,000 by 2030.

Also attending the opening of the centre were other MPs from Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC Cai Yinzhou and Elysa Chen.

The new centre also supports Dementia Singapore’s VFH programme, its growing alumni and their advocacy efforts.

The chief executive officer of Dementia Singapore, Bryan Tan, said they hope the centre will encourage the community to see the person behind the dementia diagnosis, and to appreciate the abilities, aspirations and contributions of anyone living with dementia.

Tan added: “It provides opportunities for us to continue building friendships, staying engaged in meaningful activities, sharing our voices and contributing to the community around us.”