Strengthening Global Connections: Dementia Alliance Collaborates with Naoko Suzuki
Dementia Alliance was honoured to recently host Naoko Suzuki, Associate Professor at the Center for Community Engagement and Lifelong Learning at Tokushima University, one of our valued collaborators. During her two-day visit, Professor Suzuki immersed herself in learning about how Dementia Alliance engages with the community and implements its innovative care models.
Sharing Knowledge Across Borders
Professor Suzuki's visit highlighted the importance of information sharing in advancing dementia awareness and education globally. Currently, she is working on an illustrated picture book aimed at preschool and early-age children, designed to introduce the concept of dementia to young minds in an accessible and compassionate way. Recognizing the potential impact of this project, Dementia Alliance is proud to collaborate with Professor Suzuki to translate the book into English and publish it in Australia. Together, we believe that early education is crucial to building empathy and understanding about dementia from a young age, helping to foster dementia-friendly communities for future generations.
Reflections at Eppalock: A Profound Experience
During her visit, Professor Suzuki was deeply moved by her experience at Reflections at Eppalock, the 20-acre nature-based sanctuary and flagship project of Dementia Alliance. "I was blown away by the enormity of Reflections at Eppalock—pictures simply do not do it justice," Professor Suzuki shared. "The scale, the setting, and the thoughtfulness behind every aspect of this space are remarkable."
She was impressed with how community-driven the project is, noting that the involvement of local residents, carers, and people living with dementia has created a space that truly reflects the needs and values of the community it serves."I was particularly impressed by Dementia Alliance’s 'Bush Inspired Community Care Model' and would like to learn more about the Toolkit. It is very systematised and well refined," she added. "As a researcher and practitioner seeking better awareness-raising initiatives regarding dementia, I believe this is one of the best models we have seen." Her endorsement underscores the global significance of the Bush Inspired Community Care Model, which blends nature-based respite, community engagement, and culturally responsive care solutions to support holistic well-being.
Looking Ahead
Our partnership with Professor Suzuki represents a significant step in global collaboration, bridging research, community engagement, and educational outreach. By working together, we aim to raise awareness, break down stigma, and empower communities to better understand and support people living with dementia.
Stay tuned for updates on the upcoming picture book and more collaborative initiatives with Professor Suzuki and international partners dedicated to creating dementia-friendly futures.
About Naoko Suzuki
Naoko Suzuki is an Associate Professor at the Center for Community Engagement and Lifelong Learning at Tokushima University. Naoko’s research primarily focuses on lifelong learning, adult education, inclusive education, and the social inclusion of individuals with dementia. She has led several research projects, including international comparative studies on public awareness initiatives for dementia and the utilization of lifelong learning for older adults showing signs of cognitive decline.
Through her dedication to education and community engagement, Naoko continues to influence policies and practices that foster inclusive and supportive communities for all individuals.
