A man from Derrygonnelly in Fermanagh who lives with dementia has called for a proactive approach to addressing the condition. Stephen Kennedy chairs The 3 Nations Dementia Working Group. He received his diagnosis in 2016 at age 56.

The Alzheimer's Society plans to launch its Roadmap for Change at Parliament Buildings in Stormont on Monday, May 18. Health Minister Mike Nesbitt is expected to attend the event. Personal accounts from individuals affected by dementia in Northern Ireland will feature at the launch.

Kennedy described the document as a call to action that outlines the challenges faced by people with dementia, their needs, government commitments required, and indicators of success over coming years. He anticipates it will focus on a few key priorities for dementia policy rather than detailed service plans or budgets.

The roadmap is expected to cover early and accurate diagnosis, support after diagnosis, assistance for carers, and improved social and home care.

Kennedy highlighted gaps in funding from the Stormont Executive and UK Government. He noted that around one million people in the UK live with dementia, but one in three lack a diagnosis. He stated that affected individuals and families face fear and uncertainty without proper care and support.