Together, we’re building a more dementia-friendly Hawaiʻi.
Become a Dementia Champion. Share Aloha. Build Understanding.
Join the movement to raise awareness and create dementia-friendly communities across Hawaiʻi.
What is the Dementia Champion Campaign?
The Dementia Champion Campaign is a statewide effort led by the Hawaiʻi Dementia Initiative, a coalition of community members and stakeholders working together to implement the Hawaiʻi 2035: State Strategic Plan on Alzheimer’s Disease & Related Dementias.
Through community outreach, education, and training, we aim to:
- Raise public awareness about dementia
- Encourage more people to receive dementia education
- Support people living with dementia, caregivers, and families
- Foster more dementia-friendly communities
What is a Dementia Champion?
A Dementia Champion is someone who has completed a dementia education or training session and is committed to supporting people living with dementia in their community.
When you complete training, you’ll receive a Dementia Champion Pin. Your Pin Means:
- You’re an ally and advocate
- You’ve taken time to learn about dementia
- You’re a safe person to approach for help
- If you’re a caregiver, your pin can also signal your role when accompanying someone wearing the “I Am Here” sticker
A Symbol of Dignity and Strength
The “I Am Here” sticker is a voluntary way for individuals living with dementia or cognitive impairment to self-identify—if they choose to. It reminds us that:
“Although someone may be living with dementia, they are still here. Their personhood and inner strength remain.”
When You See This Sticker: Respond with respect, patience, and understanding—in the true spirit of aloha.
How to Use the Sticker:
- Place it on clothing, a favorite jacket, or hat before going out
- Completely optional and empowering
The meaning behind the design.
In Hawaiian proverbs, ʻŌhiʻa Lehua are often symbolic for a person highly esteemed and of high regard. The tree itself is very strong and is used for posts, houses, and canoes.
“I mōhala nō ka lehua i ke keʻekeʻehi ʻia e ka ua. [Translated: Lehua blossoms unfold because the rains tread upon them.] It is the rain that brings forth the lehua blossoms. So do gentle words bring forth much that is desired.” (Mary Kawena Pukuʻi, ʻŌlelo Noʻeau No. 1236).
As different types of rain can be good or bad for the plant, we also need to be sensitive as we support people living with dementia. The color purple has signified royalty for centuries, and in present day purple also symbolizes Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Purple also represents people from every background and party (blue and red, right and left), coming together to join as allies for this cause.
Design Credit: 4Front Branding and the Public Awareness & Education Action Team Members
Caregiver Cards
Caregivers may also carry Alzheimer’s Association cards to discreetly inform others in public spaces
Download CardsThis campaign is a collaborative effort from our Action Teams focused on:
Public Awareness & Education
Dementia Caregiving
Workforce Development
Join us in your community!
We’ll post upcoming informational sessions, public presentations, and dementia care training across the islands. If you know of any upcoming training, let us know!
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