Facing Dementia

Dementia is still little understood by most people, and presents an ongoing challenge for experts and laymen alike. The gradual loss of mental abilities and identity usually begins imperceptibly and is only recognised when it’s too late. The disease takes an emotional and economic toll on individuals and families. With no cures for dementia, this series looks to cover various aspects from diagnosis to caregiving to treatments – and to debunk some misconceptions. What can help? Is it preventable? FACING DEMENTIA features people living with dementia, as well as doctors and experts who are on the frontline.

Description

Genre: Factual, Health
Language: English
Year: 2016

Duration: 5 x 60 mins
Territory/Rights available: Worldwide
Formats Available: –
Show Format: HD
Produced by: The Moving Visuals Co

Client: Channel News Asia, Mediacorp Singapore

 EPISODE # 1: DO I HAVE DEMENTIA?

This episode introduces a few people who are having memory issues. They suspect that their minds are not working as well as they should be and want to find out why. We track them as they undergo tests and scans for dementia. What will they and the doctors uncover?

EPISODE # 2: THE LONG ROAD AHEAD

Though many link dementia with old age, more people under 60 are now emerging with early onset dementia. We look at how these people face specific challenges in daily living and their future. How do their loved ones cope with unpredictable and sometimes chaotic behaviours?

EPISODE # 3: CAREGIVERS & LOVED ONES

Caring for people with dementia can be a long and challenging journey. We meet caregivers from different walks of life and find out how dementia has impacted and changed their lives. What obstacles must they overcome? What lessons can they learn? And how will they adjust to this new reality?

EPISODE # 4: BEYOND MEDICINE

Hope vs. Reality – we explore two different camps: the scientists who are trying to prevent or reverse Alzheimer’s disease; and those who believe that using social therapies are the best way to manage people with dementia. We examine the possible breakthroughs and the pitfalls of both.

EPISODE # 5: WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS

With Singapore’s rapidly aging population, the number of people at risk of dementia are projected to rise dramatically. Are we prepared? What hurdles must we overcome? We look at Singapore’s unique landscape, and asks how we can build a more dementia friendly society.