The Dominica Dementia Foundation (DDF) is celebrating a decade of advocacy, awareness and support for people living with dementia, their families and caregivers, as the organization marks its 10th anniversary this September.
Founded in 2016 by award-winning changemaker, Rianna Patterson at the age of 18. The Foundation was established in memory of her grandfather, Terry Vidal. What began as a vision in Patterson’s family living room has grown into an organisation playing an important role in raising awareness about dementia and strengthening support for affected families across Dominica.
Reflecting on the milestone, Rianna expressed pride in the Foundation’s achievements and gratitude to the individuals and organisations that have contributed to its development. She emphasised that, ten years later, her commitment to dementia awareness remains stronger than ever.
Over the past decade, the Dominica Dementia Foundation has undertaken various initiatives aimed at reducing stigma, educating communities and improving support for people living with dementia. Among its notable achievements was the launch of Dominica’s first Dementia Friends Programme in 2018, followed by the establishment of a national dementia support network in 2020.
The Foundation has also worked with organisations including PHARCS, Lifeline Ministries, the RayAsta Foundation and Optimum Care Facility to deliver dementia-friendly activities, caregiver workshops, training, scholarships and psychosocial support.
Its advocacy has extended beyond community programmes. The DDF has participated in policy discussions through the Ministry of Health’s steering group for the National Dementia Plan and has advocated for dementia to be incorporated into Dominica’s national census and national ageing policy.
Youth engagement has been a significant part of the Foundation’s work. Initiatives have included school outreach, the Student Ambassador Programme at Dominica State College, seminars through the Commonwealth Youth Academy and partnerships with youth and community organisations.
The Foundation’s work has also extended beyond Dominica’s borders. Patterson has participated in international forums and engagements focused on dementia, ageing and youth leadership, while the organisation has developed relationships with Alzheimer’s organisations in Puerto Rico and Curaçao. Patterson’s advocacy has earned international recognition, including the Queen’s Young Leaders Award in 2017, Ignite Caribbean 30 Under 30 in 2022, and the Caribbean Global Award in 2024.
The Foundation’s work has taken on added importance as dementia continues to pose a growing challenge across the Caribbean and Latin America. DDF President Veronne Nicholas noted that dementia cases in the region are projected to rise from approximately 6.9 million in 2020 to nearly 10 million by 2030 and more than 19 million by 2050.
Nicholas stressed the need for stronger healthcare systems, greater support for caregivers, increased awareness and greater preparation at the community level.
Beyond statistics, the Foundation is emphasising the human impact of dementia and the importance of individualised, respectful care. Increased awareness, it says, has helped to break the silence surrounding the condition and reduce some of the stigma experienced by people living with dementia and their families.
The anniversary will be recognised as part of World Alzheimer’s Month, with the Office of the President of Dominica scheduled to illuminate the State House from September 17 to 21, 2026, in a symbolic show of support for dementia awareness and advocacy.
As it enters its second decade, the Dominica Dementia Foundation is inviting interested individuals to join its Board of Directors, signaling its intention to expand and strengthen its work.
For Patterson, the anniversary represents more than a celebration of the past. It is a reaffirmation of a mission that began from personal loss but has developed into a decade-long movement dedicated to ensuring that people living with dementia and their caregivers are seen, supported and treated with dignity.
“Ten years later, our commitment remains stronger than ever,” Patterson said, describing the opportunity to serve the dementia community as one of the greatest honours of her life.
