Living Well with Dementia: A South Dublin Community Initiative

For over a decade, Siel Bleu Ireland has been proud to work alongside Living Well with Dementia (LWwD) in supporting people living with dementia in South Dublin. Since 2012, this partnership has grown from a pilot initiative into a dynamic collaboration that empowers individuals and strengthens communities. It shows what’s possible when people come together with a shared vision.

A 13-Year Partnership Rooted in Community

Originally launched as a three-year pilot programme by the HSE in 2012, Living Well with Dementia had one clear goal: to find sustainable community supports that would allow people living with dementia to remain in their own homes, stay active, and feel included in their communities. The programme was such a success that in 2016, it was officially mainstreamed by the HSE. Over the years, LWwD has developed and piloted a wide range of initiatives for people living with dementia, including befriending & companionship, carer support & education, gardening, writing & meditation groups, and, of course, wonderful social events. At the heart of it all are meaningful, community-based activities like art, dance, bridge, and exercise classes that help individuals stay engaged and connected. Siel Bleu Ireland was introduced to LWwD at a local exhibition in Dún Laoghaire in 2011. At the time, SBI was new to the community, but the LWwD team recognised our shared mission right away.

“They really understand what our services are about. We want to give people with dementia autonomy and control over their lives. Our mantra is to see the person, not the dementia. And Siel Bleu shares that vision.”

Since 2012, our trainers have delivered tailored exercise sessions that not only improve strength, flexibility, and balance but also uplift mood and create community. As one LWwD representative put it:

“Their facilitators adapt the classes to the group, they get to know the participants, and they focus on what people can do, not what they can’t. The sessions are social, engaging, and inclusive.”

Shared Goals, Shared Impact

Siel Bleu Ireland and Living Well with Dementia share the same core principles: person-centred care, community-led solutions, and a commitment to autonomy, well-being, and inclusion. That’s why our partnership works.

We both believe that physical activity is a powerful tool, not just for physical health, but for improving overall well-being. By combining Siel Bleu Ireland’s expertise in adapted exercise with Living Well with Dementia’s deep understanding of dementia care, we’re creating a lasting impact in the community.

Our Dementia-Friendly Exercise Class in Blackrock

Since 2012, our weekly exercise class in Blackrock has been at the heart of our partnership. It’s a unique and growing space where physical activity, memory stimulation, and social connection come together. Led by a dedicated trainer, the class includes gentle, adapted exercises that focus on movement, balance, coordination, and cognitive stimulation. The supportive environment is even stronger thanks to the wonderful volunteers, who assist the trainer and help participants stay involved and connected throughout the class. Their presence ensures that everyone, no matter their level of ability, can participate fully. Each class ends with a relaxed tea and chat, giving everyone the chance to connect, share stories, and build community beyond the exercise.

Join Us and Live Well with Dementia

Together, Living Well with Dementia and Siel Bleu Ireland are doing more than offering exercise classes. We’re building a model for ageing well, living fully, and staying connected. To learn more, join a class, or refer a loved one, please visit www.livingwellwithdementia.ie or contact them at info@livingwellwithdementia.ie.