Association for Dementia and Alzheimer's of South Africa (ADASA)
The Association for Dementia and Alzheimer's of South Africa (ADASA) expresses its heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of the woman reportedly living with dementia who tragically lost her life after allegedly being mistaken for a trespasser.
While the circumstances surrounding this incident remain the responsibility of the relevant authorities to investigate, the tragedy has once again highlighted an issue that affects thousands of South African families every day.
For people living with dementia, becoming disorientated, wandering from home, forgetting familiar places or being unable to explain who they are are recognised symptoms of the condition—not criminal behaviour.
Confusion should never be mistaken for criminality.
Across South Africa—in cities, towns, farming communities, informal settlements and rural villages—people living with dementia are too often misunderstood. They are excluded, neglected, abused, accused of wrongdoing or placed in dangerous situations simply because those around them do not recognise the signs of dementia.
This is not an isolated incident.
It is a reminder that dementia is no longer only a healthcare issue. It is increasingly a family issue, a community issue, a public safety issue and a national planning challenge.
As South Africa's population ages, more families will experience the emotional, practical, legal and financial challenges associated with dementia. Preparing for these realities requires awareness, education, planning and coordinated support.
Building a Future Where Families Are Not Alone
ADASA believes that every person living with dementia deserves not only compassionate care, but also the opportunity to plan for the future while they are still able to make informed decisions.
Every family deserves access to trusted guidance throughout the dementia journey—from the first signs of cognitive decline through diagnosis, care, financial and legal planning, and ongoing family support.
For this reason, ADASA is accelerating the development of ADASA Future Care Solutions—a coordinated national initiative designed to help individuals and families navigate every stage of living with dementia.
The initiative aims to bring together trusted professionals, organisations and practical resources into a single support ecosystem that assists families with:
- Dementia awareness and education.
- Guidance following diagnosis.
- Caregiver support and practical resources.
- Financial planning and decision-making guidance.
- Legal and estate planning support.
- Future care planning.
- Access to trusted dementia-related products and services.
- Professional referrals and community support.
- Advocacy to protect the rights and dignity of people living with dementia.
Our vision is simple:
No family should have to navigate dementia alone.
A National Call to Action
ADASA calls on government, healthcare providers, professional bodies, employers, retirement funds, financial advisers, security companies, law enforcement agencies, community organisations and every South African to work together in building dementia-friendly communities where people living with dementia are recognised, protected and treated with dignity.
We believe South Africa should strive towards:
- Greater public understanding of dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
- Dementia awareness training for first responders, security personnel, healthcare workers and community leaders.
- Earlier diagnosis and improved access to support services.
- Better protection of the rights and safety of people living with dementia.
- Stronger support for caregivers and families.
- Greater access to financial, legal and future care planning.
- National collaboration between the public, private and non-profit sectors.
- Recognition of dementia as a growing public health priority.
Every South African Can Make a Difference
A few moments of patience and understanding can save a life.
If you encounter someone who appears confused, disorientated or lost:
- Approach them calmly and respectfully.
- Do not assume criminal intent.
- Seek assistance where appropriate.
- Contact emergency services or local support networks if necessary.
- Remember that confusion may be the result of a medical condition rather than wrongdoing.
One act of compassion can protect a vulnerable person and reunite them with their family.
Looking Forward
ADASA remains committed to building a South Africa where people living with dementia can continue to live with dignity, safety and hope.
Through education, advocacy, partnerships and the development of practical Future Care Solutions, we aim to ensure that families receive the guidance, support and resources they need throughout the dementia journey.
This tragedy reminds us that awareness alone is not enough.
We must also help families prepare, plan and access the right support before a crisis occurs.
Together we can build a future where every person living with dementia is understood, respected and protected.
About ADASA
The Association for Dementia and Alzheimer's of South Africa (ADASA) is South Africa's leading non-profit organisation dedicated to improving the lives of people living with dementia and supporting their families through education, advocacy, awareness, caregiver support and the development of practical future care solutions.
About ADASA
The Association for Dementia and Alzheimer's of South Africa (ADASA) is South Africa's leading non-profit organisation dedicated to improving the lives of people living with dementia and supporting their families through education, advocacy, awareness, caregiver support and the development of practical future care solutions.
Media Enquiries
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Lillian Krűger |
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Fund Research Developer |
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Association for Dementia and Alzheimer’s of South Africa NPC (ADASA) |
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National Office – South Africa Mobile: +27 72 947 2257 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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