2026-01

To promote a dementia-friendly community and help individuals with dementia and their families regain confidence in going out, our center recently organized a two-night “Sailing with Memories” caring cruise journey. A total of 14 families affected by dementia, nearly 50 participants, boarded the Spectrum of the Seas cruise ship. With the full support of a professional team, they enjoyed a safe, reassuring, and joyful family trip.

Many caregivers tend to reduce social activities after their loved ones are diagnosed, due to concerns about difficulties when going out. The core goal of this journey was to break down that barrier. We specially arranged for registered nurses and social workers with experience in dementia care to accompany the group throughout the trip. From pre-trip preparation and boarding procedures to every stage on board, personalized and seamless support was provided to meet the needs of both the individuals with dementia and to offer respite for their caregivers.

During the journey, we thoughtfully designed a variety of dementia-friendly activities, including:

• “A Nostalgic Hong Kong Night”: Classic melodies and retro ambiance helped evoke fond memories and encourage social interaction.
• Gentle Stretching Exercises: Light physical activities suitable for seniors held at the sun deck.
• Family Team Games: Promoting cooperation and communication among family members.
• Caregiver Consultation Sessions: Real-time emotional support and sharing of caregiving knowledge.

This voyage was not only a rare opportunity for a family holiday, but also a meaningful act of social advocacy. It strongly demonstrated that with thoughtful planning and community support, families affected by dementia can also enjoy quality outings and participate in social life.

We sincerely thank all participating families for their trust, and the cruise staff for their assistance. Special thanks to Ms. Ali Lee for joining us at the send-off. Moving forward, our center will continue to collaborate with all sectors to create more inclusive opportunities and build a more supportive and compassionate community for people with dementia and their families.