Creating a Dementia Inclusive Generation

Inspiring understanding and challenging stigma by empowering young people to take action.

With over 64,000 people living with dementia in Ireland, and 1 in 3 young people likely to know someone affected, the need for greater awareness and understanding is urgent. Increasingly, it is not just older relatives affected by dementia, as many families are impacted by Young Onset Dementia (YOD) which is when dementia is diagnosed under the age of 65. Over 4,000 people in Ireland live with YOD and these figures are expected to continue to rise.

The ASI developed Creating a Dementia Inclusive Generation to equip students with knowledge, coping strategies, and practical skills to engage meaningfully and sensitively with people living with dementia and their carers. The programme goes beyond theory; it builds empathy, understanding, and action, engaging schools and youth organisations nationwide. Students learn how dementia affects real lives and communities, and how they can make a difference.

A dynamic, curriculum-aligned learning experience 

Developed in collaboration with the Dementia Services Information and Development Centre, this national award-winning programme provides a meaningful and relevant learning journey for students. The programme is:

• An accredited National Council for Curriculum and Assessment Micro Module
• In student-led e-learning format  
• Designed to promote empathy, awareness and action 

The programme consists of three phases:

Phase One: Online course  –  five interactive, self-directed modules: 

• Growing Older 
• The Brain 
• Brain Health 
• What is Dementia? 
• Perceptions of Dementia 

Together, these modules encourage learning, reflection and discussion, while building understanding not just of dementia, but of ageing and inclusion more broadly.

Phase Two: Peer Education 

Using our specifically designed Peer Educator Toolkit, students are given the opportunity to take control of their learning and share their knowledge. The toolkit includes three guides on how to craft a lesson, encouraging students to find their own teaching styles. This can be done with other class groups or out in the community. 

Phase Three: Community Engagement  

Here, students and schools alike are encouraged to get out and be active in their community. This can be through fundraising, where our teams can help you design your event or connect with national initiatives. Or get together with your local services and take part in intergenerational gatherings.

Designed for students. Built for impact. 

• Gaisce Challenge Partner– students can contribute towards their Gaisce Award. 
• Available As Gaeilge – We are delighted that our online course and accompanying worksheets are available As Gaeilge, supporting Irish-speaking schools and promoting language inclusivity. 
• Adaptable for all age groups – Ideal for Gaeltacht’s, youth groups, and other programmes. 
• Compatible with – Stripe Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition & Young Social Innovators.  
• Tailored to your school – Choose the level of engagement that suits your students. 

Why it matters 

With dementia diagnoses continuing to rise, it has never been more important to equip young people with the skills to understand and respond. This programme helps remove fear, challenge stigma, and build a more inclusive society. 

As Cathryn O’Leary, National Community Engagement Manager, The Alzheimer Society of Ireland, explains: 

“With a growing number of people being diagnosed with dementia each year, it is more important than ever that we support young people to understand and cope when someone they know receives a diagnosis. This programme empowers them, removes fear, and helps break down stigma.” 

Be part of the change 

This is more than a youth programme, it’s an opportunity to shape a generation that understands, supports, and advocates for people living with dementia. Bring this award-winning programme to your school and help create a more dementia-inclusive Ireland. 

Click here to download our NCCA micro module  

Click here to download our programme brochure  

Click here to download our ASI x Gaisce information  

Click here to download a taster of our Peer Education Toolkit  

For more information on how your school or youth group can get involved, please fill out the form below: