Dementia Awareness in October holds a special meaning for me and for everyone at Ola Prestige Care Services. It’s a time to raise our voices, take action, and walk in solidarity with those living with dementia. A condition that doesn’t just affect memory, but also shapes lives, relationships, and communities.
As the Registered Manager and founder of Ola Prestige Care Services Ltd, I’ve seen the realities of dementia up close, the strength it demands, the patience it requires, and the compassion it deserves. I’ve watched families show unwavering love in the face of uncertainty, and I’ve seen how the right support, delivered with dignity and understanding, can make every day a little brighter.
That’s why this October, I’ve set myself a challenge that’s close to my heart: to walk 62 miles, roughly two miles every day, to raise awareness for dementia.
Why 62 Miles?
The number is more than just a goal; it’s symbolic. Each mile represents a moment of care, a conversation, a shared smile, or a step forward in understanding dementia. It reflects the daily commitment of families, carers, and care professionals who dedicate themselves one step at a time to helping someone live well with dementia.
Walking 62 miles reminds us that dementia care is a journey, one that requires consistency, compassion, and community. It’s not about how fast we go, but about staying steady, present, and connected, just as we do in care.
The Meaning Behind the Walk
At Ola Prestige Care, we believe care should never feel routine; it should feel honourable, respectful, and deeply human. This walk is an extension of that belief. It’s a way to bring awareness not just to dementia, but to the importance of emotional wellbeing, meaningful connection, and person-centred care.
Many people assume dementia is only about memory loss, but it affects so much more – language, behaviour, mood, and independence. For families, it can be a long and emotional road filled with both challenges and moments of pure love.
Through this walk, I want to honour everyone living with dementia and the incredible families and carers who walk beside them day after day with strength, patience, and compassion.
Dementia Awareness: Why It Matters
In the UK, more than 900,000 people are currently living with dementia, and that number continues to grow. In communities like Dartford and across Kent, families face the daily realities of care, often unsure where to turn for help or how to plan for the future.
Raising awareness is vital because knowledge is empowerment. When we understand dementia better, we can spot the early signs, access support sooner, and approach care with empathy rather than fear. It also helps reduce stigma, reminding society that people living with dementia are not defined by their diagnosis, they are individuals with stories, feelings, and a right to live with dignity.
At Ola Prestige Care Services, we’re passionate about dementia-led home care. Our carers receive specialist training to understand the complexities of dementia, including communication techniques, emotional support, and how to create safe, familiar environments. We focus on preserving independence and identity ensuring that every person we support continues to feel seen, valued, and respected.
My Personal Commitment
This walk isn’t just a physical challenge; it’s a reflection of everything we stand for as a care organisation. Each step represents:
- Respect: for those living with dementia and their families.
- Compassion: for the emotional journey that care involves.
- Dignity: for the right of every person to feel valued and safe at home.
- Community: for the collective effort it takes to support wellbeing.
I’ll be sharing updates throughout the month reflections, photos from my walks, and stories that inspire me along the way. I hope these moments will remind others that small actions, when done with heart, can have a lasting impact.
Tips for Supporting a Loved One with Dementia
As part of this campaign, I also want to share a few gentle reminders that can help families make a difference in everyday life:
- Stay patient and calm. Frustration can make confusion worse. Kindness and reassurance go a long way.
- Create a familiar environment. Surround them with photos, familiar scents, and favourite music — it builds comfort and security.
- Communicate simply and gently. Short sentences, eye contact, and calm tones help conversations flow more naturally.
- Encourage independence. Support them in doing what they can on their own, even small tasks.
- Look after yourself too. Carers need care — take breaks, seek support, and don’t hesitate to ask for help.
Remember, dementia care isn’t about perfection, it’s about connection.
Together, We Can Make Every Step Count
By walking 62 miles this October, I’m not just raising awareness. I’m inviting our community to join me in creating understanding, unity, and hope. Whether you choose to walk a few steps alongside me, share your story, or simply raise awareness by talking about dementia, you’re part of this journey too.
You don’t need to walk far to make a difference. Sometimes, the smallest steps are the most meaningful.
About Ola Prestige Care Services
At Ola Prestige Care Services, our purpose is clear: to provide dignified, compassionate, and high-quality home care that gives families peace of mind and supports loved ones to live well in their own homes.
Founded by Olayinka Ogunnusi, a qualified nurse with over 20 years of professional healthcare experience, we deliver care that bridges hospital, home, and community. We’re proud to be a CQC-registered, fully insured, and DBS-checked provider, offering a range of services including:
- Dementia and Alzheimer’s care
- Live-in and visiting home care
- Respite and palliative care
- Support for young adults and the elderly
- Companionship, wellbeing, and lifestyle support
Our approach is person-centred, nurse-led, and deeply rooted in our values of honour, respect, and abundance – the meaning behind the name Ola.
Join the Journey
- Follow my progress: I’ll be sharing updates from my 62-mile challenge throughout October on our social media platforms. Come along for the journey!
- Share your story: Do you have a loved one living with dementia? Share your experiences or words of encouragement in the comments.
- Take your own steps: Walk a few miles this month, dedicate them to someone you care for, and help spread awareness.
- Support quality care: If you or someone you know needs specialist dementia care at home in Dartford or across Kent, reach out. We’re here to help.
Final Thoughts
Dementia changes lives, but it doesn’t erase them. With compassion, understanding, and the right support, life can still be filled with laughter, connection, and meaning.
Every step we take together in care, in awareness, in empathy brings us closer to a world where no one faces dementia alone.
Let’s make every mile count. Let’s walk for dignity. Let’s walk for compassion. Let’s walk for change.
Contact us today to learn more about our dementia care services or to get involved in this awareness walk.
Based in Dartford | Serving families across Kent