At Dementia Solutions, the “Forget Me Not Flower” serves as a constant reminder for all of us to “forget not” the person behind the dementia. The solution sometimes lies in understanding the person before dementia. The challenge to all of us then is to see, really see, and know the person we are caring for so we can provide them the best care they need.
The Meaning Behind the “Star”
The “star” holds a profound meaning in our community.
First, it represents “hope.” While we wait for the cure, each of us can be a symbol of “hope” for the person with dementia. Together, we can change the status quo in dementia care through the awareness we create. Most importantly, through our actions, we can model and demonstrate true person-centric care.
Second, the “star” symbolizes “light” and “guide.” The “guide” is the person with dementia guiding us on how we can best support them, the essence of person-centered care. Being at the center of the flower also reminds us that it’s the person living with dementia that brings us together – family and professional caregivers alike.
The Meaning Behind the “Petals”
The petals of our “Forget Me Not Flower” is made up of “interlinked hearts,” our hearts. Starting from those living with dementia, to those involved in their care and well-being, the petals represent a caring community with shared values. Together, we represent the caring community made up of family, friends, and professionals, working together to best support all those affected by dementia.
The Meaning Behind our “Colours”
Blue represents trust, peace, calmness, and health. The yellow from the star radiates warmth, positivity, and compassion.
The subtle color palette also reminds us, that supporting someone living with symptoms of dementia does not require grand gestures. Often, what is most remembered is what’s felt in the heart. It’s the subtle yet genuine, caring, thoughtful, and intentional ways we do our work. It’s about combining our technical knowledge and skills with a smile, a touch, or even, the purposeful pauses we take to demonstrate, “I am giving you my 100% attention because I care.”
Planting the Seeds of Forget-Me-Not Flowers
There are no two dementia cases alike. Each person is unique. We are all unique. This is what makes each and every one of us “special” in our own way. As care providers, it can be stressful and easy to forget that there is a person behind the noticeable changes. Behind the incomprehensible words, the blank stares, the changes in behaviours…is a mother, grandfather, sister, teacher, friend, or, it could be us someday.
