Ella’s Story:

An Example of Rementia and Re-Ablement facilitated by the Spark of Life Philosophy

Tania Hammond
Nurse Practitioner-Aged Care
Eyre and Far North Local Health Network
SA Health

Some time ago a beautiful lady, Ella, moved from one of our lower care areas to a higher care area because her dementia had progressed and she needed more support. However, she wasn’t doing so well in her new environment. She had withdrawn into herself, stopped talking to people and even stopped eating. She spent a lot of time in bed and the staff came to me because they were really worried about her. The staff member who had undertaken Spark of Life Education, wanted to do an activity around food to help encourage her to eat again.

So we used our special Spark of Life Invitation to Ella to make a sandwich. When we invited her she thought ‘Oh, that feels a bit special and I think I would like to be a part of that’ and she said ‘Yes, I would like to do that.”

And we really didn’t do anything- we just encouraged her to come with us. She chose the ingredients and all the things she needed, and we placed them on the table. Ella did everything: she very carefully buttered the bread, placed the tomato and onion on top, and then used a very sharp knife to cut the sandwich.

It was incredible to see the transformation from her being curled up in bed not wanting to engage with anyone, to making this amazing sandwich and then eating it.

What is more incredible is that another resident who heard the fun in the room came in and said

“What are you doing there?” Then Ella spoke and said: “ We are making sandwiches would you like some?” He said “That would be wonderful”

This change was in less than 30 minutes, and you wouldn’t think looking at this photo that Ella had advanced dementia.

That is the magic of the Spark of Life Philosophy and Model of Care.

To find out more about the Spark of Life Model of Care:

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Rekindling Joy and Dignity: Person-Centric Dementia Care at A1 Snehanjali, India

By Sailesh Mishra
Founder President – Silver Innings Group
Founder A1 Snehanjali, assisted living elder care home

At A1Snehanjali Assisted Living Elder Care Home, a Silver Innings project we believe that ageing with dignity and joy is every individual’s right — regardless of their diagnosis. Through the globally recognised Spark of Life Philosophy, we embrace a person-centric model of dementia care that focuses on emotional connection, empathy, and purpose — not just clinical needs.

 

 

 

The image of an elder gentleman holding a doll close to his chest speaks volumes beyond words. In our home, such simple interactions are not dismissed but deeply honoured. This is not just a toy — it’s a spark. A memory. A sense of belonging. A therapeutic moment rooted in love and recognition. Doll therapy, underpinned by empathy and validation, enables our residents to express emotions, feel needed, and re-experience nurturing roles that once gave their lives meaning.

In the second image, a couple holds up a pair of glasses, inviting us to see the world from their perspective — clear, dignified, and full of lived wisdom. It reminds us that when we change how we look at people with dementia, we begin to see the person within, not the disease.

At A1Snehanjali, our trained caregivers walk with our residents — not ahead or behind — creating an environment filled with laughter, warmth, music, sensory engagement, and unconditional respect. We’ve seen transformations: eyes light up, hands reach out, long-lost smiles return.

This is not just care. This is connection.
This is the Spark of Life Model of Care in Action.

To learn more about the Spark of Life Model of Care:

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Bringing Joy and Purpose to Life:
How HebronLove Elder’s Home is
Benefiting from the Spark of Life Philosophy

Elizabeth Aina-Scott, Founder HebronLove and Care Centres and Hebron Love Elders Home, Lagos and Ibadan, Nigeria

At HebronLove Elder’s Home, we are deeply committed to fostering a culture of warmth, compassion, and genuine human connection. This commitment has found a powerful ally in the Spark of Life Philosophy—part of a transformative model of care that is enriching the lives of our residents, staff, and families in meaningful ways.

Implementing the Spark of Life Philosophy

Since embracing the Philosophy, we have woven its principles into every aspect of our care and daily routines. Our focus has moved from task-based care to a truly person-centered and relationship-focused approach. Each resident life history, personal preferences, and the capacity to experience joy and meaning.

Key ways we are putting the Philosophy into practice include:

Daily connection moments:
Every resident begins the day with an intentional, personal interaction that affirms their identity and worth.

Emotional Connection:
Our team pays close attention to how residents feel, supporting emotional well-being alongside physical care.

At HebronLove Elders Home, we love our residents passionately, and we give them the opportunity  to express love to others as well. Residents are  empowered to choose their preferences between alternatives .We also encourage them to demonstrate their abilities, like leading fellowship, telling stories and counselling, thereby boosting their self esteem

Rehabilitative Interactions:
Activities such as singing, storytelling, dancing, shared laughter, and meaningful conversations are now part of everyday life.

The Team at HebronLove Elders Home

Our staff have received training in the Essence of the Spark of Life Philosophy enhancing their empathy, communication, and understanding—especially in supporting residents living with dementia. As we practice the principles of Spark of Life Philosophy, we witness the restoration of dignity, identity, a sense of belonging as well as a reignited spirit.

Comments from the Care Manager reveals a a sense of satistaction and great achievement:

“This philosophy has changed how we see our work. It’s no longer just about meeting physical needs. It’s about restoring and reigniting the spirit, rebuilding trust, creating joy and a hope for the future. That’s the heart of true care.”

— Ms Lola Aluko
HebronLove Elder’s Home

The Impact:
The implementation of the Spark of Life Philosophy has led to a Culture of Possibility. Witnessing the transformation has been truly heartwarming, and has changed how we see HebronLove Elders Home.

Resident Engagement and Wellbeing:
Residents are more alert, joyful, and socially connected. There has been a noticeable reduction in feelings of isolation and anxiety. One of our residents, once withdrawn, now joyfully sings familiar hymns during morning interactions

Staff Fulfilment
Our carers feel more connected and empowered in their roles. The atmosphere throughout the home has become more uplifting and relationship-driven.

“The Spark of Life Philosophy reminded me why I chose this profession. We’re not just carers—we’re companions, encouragers, and sometimes the brightest part of someone’s day.”

— Omotayo Ismail, Carer

Family Confidence
Families have expressed deep appreciation for the positive changes. They often share how their loved ones appear more responsive, happier,and more like themselves again.

“I’ve seen my mother come alive again. She laughs more, remembers songs she used to love, and even reaches out to hug the staff. We feel so blessed to have her here.”

— Mrs Sola Abass, Daughter of a resident

A Beacon of Hope in Elder Care

The Spark of Life Philosophy has helped us redefine elder care—not simply as supporting survival, but as reigniting spirit, connection, and purpose. It has become a way of life at HebronLove Elder’s Home.

As we join in celebrating Spark of Life Global Month this August, we are reminded of this profound truth: No matter a person’s age or condition, the spark within can always be rekindled.

We remain committed to nurturing this spark—one interaction, one smile, one heartwarming moment at a time.

To read more about the Spark of Life in Nigeria:

To learn more about the Spark of Life Model of Care:

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Spark of Life Model of Care in Practice and in Action

By Mischeal McCormick
Owner of Adriel House and Adriel Rest Home
Two Spark of Life Centres of Excellence
Amberley, New Zealand

People often ask- what does the Spark of Life Model of Care look like in practice? At our home it means our residents who all have dementia live life to the fullest, their independence is facilitated, and they have active and vibrant involvement in the local community. My team have learned how to meet each person’s emotional needs and encourage activities that are self-initiated by the residents. I’ll share some particular examples of how this is experienced in this article.

In the morning the residents are waiting for the maintenance man. They will ask if he can fix their walking frame. They queue up to take a turn in mowing the lawn. It doesn’t matter if it looks crooked when they have mown it- we can always mow it again.

The residents know what to do, often better than the maintenance person. When they are outside they get their sunshine and vitamin D. When they have done a good day’s work in the garden they feel good and sleep well- they don’t need any medication to help them sleep.

They pick fruit from the fruit trees, and then cut the fruit to make jam. They initiate their own projects outside. Other residents gravitate to join in as they want to be where the action is- they don’t want to be isolated.

We have gentleman who used to have a show garden. He gets up to water the garden, and still does this in winter.

In the afternoon the ladies make sandwiches and talk about how they used to do this for local dances and share recipes.

There is always washing to fold. Our residents help staff fold laundry and it doesn’t matter if it falls on the floor- it can always be washed again, and it can be folded again.

One resident likes meat and potatoes. He has chosen each week to go to the shop, with a staff member, and chooses his own meat. He brings it back and the staff put his name on it in the fridge. Each day the cook in the kitchen will ask him what he’d like from his ‘stash’ of meat. He will make his choice and the cook will make it specially for him. He is under 65.

We enjoy the weather, open spaces in the country, gardens and farms. We take every opportunity to take the residents out to have connections in the community and improve their wellbeing.

To read the full article by Mischeal McCormick:

To learn more about the Spark of Life Model of Care:

If you are a leader in healthcare wishing to find out how to introduce the Spark of Life Model of Care to your service we invite you to email us on info@dementiacareinternational.com

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Providing International Best Practice:
Focus on Kosovo

The Spark of Life Model of Care, currently implemented on 5 continents offers governments and international healthcare providers, a cost-effective best practice resource to address the challenges in dementia care and solve the key issues. In particular, the Model equips leaders in global dementia services with evidence based, culturally appropriate and human rights-orientated education that they can deliver to their teams so they can provide integrated person-centred care. The Model provides practical and effective support to organisations who provide trauma informed care, as is illustrated in this special article about the Kosova Centre for Rehabilitation of Torture Victims.

Transforming lives with Spark of Life Model of Care in Kosovo

The Spark of Life Philosophy and Its Application in Supporting Survivors of Sexual Violence during the war in The Kosova Rehabilitation Centre for Torture Victims

The Kosova Rehabilitation Centre for Torture Victims, is established in 1999, and, we have been working with survivors of torture and war time trauma, specificaly wartime sexual violence.

The aftermath of sexual violence can be an immensely challenging and traumatic experience for survivors. Coping with the physical, emotional, and psychological effects requires a compassionate and comprehensive approach.

Selvi Izeti Çarkaxhiu reports, “Participating in the Dementia Care International’s Master Leadership Program, it was an amazing opportunity for our capacity building in our organization to see the survivors through the light of The “Spark of Life’’ philosophy which provides healing of deep emotional wounds, through interactions based on a profound connection, human to human without judgment, aim to foster kindness, compassion, empathy, respect, and an attitude of unconditional love.

The Spark of Life Philosophy is based on the belief that every individual possesses an innate spark—a core essence that is resilient, valuable, and capable of healing. This philosophy emphasizes focusing on the survivor’s strengths, resilience, and personal agency, rather than viewing them solely through the lens of victimhood.

Survivors of sexual violence often experience feelings of powerlessness, self-blame, and diminished self-worth. By embracing the Spark of LifePhilosophy, as therapists we help survivors reclaim their sense of power and autonomy by validating their experiences, acknowledging their resilience, and emphasizing their capacity for growth and healing.”

The Spark of Life Philosophy is an added value to our work with clients, since many components of this philosophy can be easily adapted to work with clients that don’t suffer from dementia, but who would benefit greatly from this holistic, encouraging and humanist techniques to inspire the human soul.

Dr. Feride Rushiti, Founder

To read the full article by Selvi Izeti Çarkaxhiu:

To learn more about the Spark of Life Model of Care:

The Benefits of the Spark of Life Model of Care with Dr Feride Rushiti:

If you are a leader in healthcare wishing to find out how to introduce the Spark of Life Model of Care to your service we invite you to email us on info@dementiacareinternational.com

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Interview with People’s Health Alliance Australia

On 18^th June 2025 Hilary Lee, President of Dementia Care International was interviewed by Dorothee Gevers from the People’s Health Alliance Australia (PHA)

The purpose of PHA is to shift the paradigm from treating disease to promoting and maintaining vibrant good health and wellbeing.

The organisation operates on the premise that we  can all make this happen by helping to create an alternative health system that integrates natural healing modalities with the conventional medical system.

If you are a healthcare leader wishing to learn more about the Spark of LifeModel of Care we invite you to contact us on info@dementiacareinternational.com

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Tania Hammond at the National Dementia Conference 2025

Thank you to Tania Hammond, Nurse Practitioner and Spark of Life Master Practitioner, Eyre and Far North Local Health Network, Rural and Remote Health, South Australia for an uplifting, insightful and informative presentation at the National Dementia Conference in Melbourne this week, as a voice of experience, implementing the Spark of Life Model of Care.  Tania presented together with Jane Verity, Founder of Dementia Care International and Mischeal McCormick, owner of Adriel House and Resthome, New Zealand.

Tania explained:

‘As Nurse Practitioner and Spark of Life Master Practitioner, I make the most of the short connections with residents and clients living with dementia wherever I see them.

• Seeing the person for who they are and their full potential
• Identify any misunderstandings
• Recognising their unmet emotional needs
• Develop individualised Spark of Life Strategies to meet these unmet needs.’

Tania has observed that staff who receive the contemporary, evidence-based Spark of Life Education, that is an integral part of the Model of Care, become competent in delivering the heart-centred practices of the Spark of Life Philosophy. These competencies equip the staff to excel in meeting the 7 new Strengthened Quality Standards. The real key to success is that staff feel empowered to do their job well and have learnt to support and understand the Older Person’s expectations and needs.

Spark of Life Model of Care not only promotes independence and rehabilitation of older people, but has a unique way of applying these to people with dementia.

Cognitive rehabilitation, or rementia, is a core focus of the Model and includes promoting independence and dignity of risk.

To read more about Tania’s work:

If you are a healthcare leader wishing to learn more about the Model of Care we invite you to email us on info@dementiacareinternational.com

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Mischeal McCormick at the National Dementia Conference 2025

Congratulations to Mischeal McCormick, Owner Operator and Spark of Life Master Practitioner, Adriel House and Rest Home, Amberley, New Zealand on an inspirational presentation at the National Dementia Conference. Mischeal supported Jane Verity’s presentation as a voice of experience in practice.

Mischeal said:

As an integral part of the Model of Care, at Adriel, all staff are educated in the Spark of Life Philosophy and have learnt to ensure every resident can contribute daily to this living and thriving community in their own individualised and meaningful way.

This means that every resident has reason to get up in the morning, they know they have value and an important role to play. Their identity and self-esteem is restored, and they have reason to live.’

In addition Mischeal explained that Adriel is now a preferred care provider operating at full capacity with a heightened reputation in local and surrounding communities. This has become possible by word of mouth  through positive feedback from relatives as well as people with dementia themselves:

Mischeal shared that thanks to implementing the Model of Care, her service has become a preferred employer. She has no need for agency staff. Instead, as a team, staff take responsibility working together when a need arises to fill a shift. She says “As a preferred employer we also grow our own workforce through inspiring young afterschool students, children and grand-children of current staff and supporting current staff to  complete nursing training. All are nurtured and educated in the Spark of Life Philosophy and gently guided.

A particularly important achievement has been meeting government standards and audits. A contributing factor has been the continuous feedback process through Spark of Life Staff and Family Satisfaction Questionnaires.

In addition, tools provided through the Model of Care on how to decrease behaviours of concern and the use of antipsychotic medication as well as the related data collection are all part of the continuous quality improvement process.

If you are a healthcare leader wishing to learn more about the Model of Care we invite you to email us on info@dementiacareinternational.com

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National Dementia Conference 2025

16th June, 2025

Today at the National Dementia Conference, hosted by Informa Connect, Jane Verity, Founder of Dementia Care International presented on the Model of Care, alongside voices of experience from Mischeal McCormick, who owns two dementia-specific homes in New Zealand, and Tania Hammond, a nurse practitioner in rural and remote SA.

Jane Verity explained:

“Optimising the quality care, attracting and retaining staff, and preventing elder abuse are all some of the most serious issues that confront Aged Care right now.

With the model we are able to create a transformational experience for staff and their care practises – one that is less focussed on tasks and more centred on connection.”

Jane says the key to this transformation is education, and that elevating staff competencies in the psychosocial aspects of care is one of the model’s strengths.

“They’ll develop knowledge, and practical skills as well as that special attitude we need staff to have to engage with people who have dementia and with each other to optimise the quality of life for all involved.”

From Mischeal McCormick
Owner Operator & Spark of Life Master Practitioner, Adriel House & Rest Home, Amberley, New Zealand

As an integral part of the Model of Care, at Adriel, all staff are educated in the Spark of Life Philosophy and have learnt to ensure every resident can contribute daily to this living and thriving community in their own individualised and meaningful way.

This means that every resident has reason to get up in the morning, they know they have value and an important role to play. Their identity and self-esteem is restored, and they have reason to live.

We excel at meeting Government Standards and Audits

• Through recognition in our Spark of Life Certification
• Continuous feedback process through Spark of Life Staff and Family Satisfaction Questionnaires.
• Support via the Tools provided through the Model of Care on how to decrease behaviours of concern and the use of antipsychotic medication as well as the related data collection are all part of the continuous quality improvementprocess.

From Tania Hammond
Nurse Practitioner & Spark of Life Master Practitioner, Eyre & Far North Local Health Network, Rural & Remote Health, South Australia

As Nurse Practitioner and Spark of Life Master Practitioner, I make the most of the short connections with residents and clients living with dementia wherever I see them.

• Seeing the person for who they are and their full potential
• Identify any misunderstandings
• Recognising their unmet emotional needs
• Develop individualised Spark of Life Strategies to meet these unmet needs.                              

To read more about Dementia Care International
at the National Dementia Conference:

If you’re a healthcare leader wishing to find out more about the
Spark of Life Model of Care, we invite you to contact us on  info@dementiacareinternational.com

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Providing International Best Practice:
Focus on New Zealand

The Spark of Life Model of Care, currently implemented on 5 continents offers governments and international healthcare providers, a cost-effective best practice resource to address the challenges in dementia care and solve the key issues. In particular, the Model equips leaders in global dementia services with evidence based, culturally appropriate and human rights-orientated education that they can deliver to their teams so they can provide integrated person-centred care.

Spark of Life Model of Care Creating an Exceptional Culture & Care Delivery

Adriel House and Rest Home are two dementia specific homes, situated in a rural farming community, 40 kilometres north of Christchurch, New Zealand, each with 21 residents. In November 2019, both homes achieved certification as Spark of Life Centres of Excellence. The certification means that the two homes have met specific requirements, showing comprehensive qualitative and quantitative evidence of outcomes that meet Dementia Care International’s psychosocial standards in care.

Misheal McCormick explains: ‘As a nursing home owner, I chose the Spark of Life Model of Care as it includes specialised education, with tools that enable this information to be passed on to every staff member in the facility, as well as a self-evaluation guide that supports continuous improvement as best practice. This is a total package. Education resources provided as part of the Model are well presented, researched, easy to follow and of high quality. From a leadership perspective, I value the ongoing support, mentoring and two monthly professional development teleconferences with relevant topics included with the model.

This Model has enabled Adriel to have a point of difference, to think outside the square and move away from the boundaries of convention. We have learned to discover new possibilities and solutions to challenging issues facing people living with dementia. This has led to innovation and new ideas in my team. These ideas don’t need to be expensive or grand, but they have a huge positive impact on staff, residents and families.

Implementing the Model has enabled our service to have a definite goal to strive for: to be recognised as an innovator in the delivery of dementia care in New Zealand. This has set us apart from other Rest Homes in my country and ensured we have a good reputation in the community of providing supportive care. We now have full occupancy and our small privately owned home remains financially viable’.

Meaningful activities based on the Spark of Life Philosophy are provided for residents which give them purpose, motivation, opportunity for reminiscing and boost their self-esteem. Our residents now have a reason to get out of bed in the morning. Because of this, for the last 10 years, we have not required the use of personal or physical restraint.

Due to the welcoming, inclusive and understanding atmosphere created by all staff, new residents feel at home and settle in quickly. The home has experienced minimal behaviours. In addition, fall rates have decreased.

Staff have shifted to a rehabilitation mindset and our residents remain independent for longer with their quality of life improved. The doors to the garden are open for residents to walk freely in and out and they are encouraged to collect the paper from the mailbox, pick flowers from the garden, feed the numerous animals, weed and water plants and vegetables.

In April 2014, Adriel received its first Continuous Improvement (a New Zealand standard that represents exceptional outcomes) by independent Auditors for using the Spark of Life Model of Care and being able to evidence a reduction in challenging behaviours and depression. In April 2017 and 2021 when re-audited our home was again commended with a further number of Continuous Improvements for the implementation of Spark of Life and for the community connections we facilitate.

In recognition of these remarkable achievements, Mischeal has been invited to speak at the Institute of Internal Auditors’ national conference on the results experienced at her service.

‘After 14 years of practical implementation, I wholeheartedly recommend the best practiceSpark of Life Model of Care to global healthcare services wishing to achieve to provide the highest quality of life for their clients, residents and patients,’ concludes Mischeal.

To read the full article by Mischeal McCormick:

To learn more about the Spark of Life Model of Care:

If you are a leader in healthcare wishing to find out how to introduce the Spark of Life Model of Care to your service we invite you to email us on info@dementiacareinternational.com

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Implementing the Spark of Life Philosophy and Model of Care at ARDSI Calcutta Chapter

By Nilanjana Maulik, Spark of Life Master Practitioner, Kolkata, India
Secretary, ARDSI Calcutta
Fellow, Commonwealth Association for the Ageing
Secretary General

6th June, 2025 

Introduction

The Alzheimer’s and Related Disorders Society of India (ARDSI) Calcutta Chapter has long been committed to fostering compassionate dementia care grounded in dignity, empathy, and personhood. In alignment with this mission, the chapter has made an effort to implement the Spark of LifePhilosophy and Model of Care—an innovative, humanistic approach that focuses on awakening the human spirit, rekindling identity, and creating enriched environments where people with dementia can thrive. This report summarizes the journey of ARDSI Calcutta with its very limited resources and constraints, in giving its best to integrate the Spark of Life principles into its services, highlighting the education and mentoring provided, outcomes achieved, and aspirations for the coming year.

I. Education and Mentoring for Staff

The successful implementation of the Spark of Life Philosophy has been made possible through a culture of continuous learning.

1. Regular Staff Training Modules included Spark of Life Philosophy
   To embed Spark of Life principles, the emotional and relational underpinnings of the philosophy—emphasizing the importance of deep connection, positive language, validation, and the central concept of “uplifting the spirit” was reintroduced. Practical training at the daycare focused on role modeling, empathy exercises, and reflective caregiving.
2. Mentoring Circles
   Monthly mentoring circles were established for staff at all levels—from housekeeping to to coordinators. These circles, led by senior trainers familiar with the Spark of Life Model, created safe spaces for caregivers to share experiences, challenges, and small victories. Reflective journaling, role-play, and peer feedback were integral to this process.
3. Family Involvement
   Orientation sessions were conducted with family caregivers, focusing on how they can align their interactions at home with Spark of Life values—such as using affirming language, offering genuine choices, and engaging in shared reminiscence. Families reported increased confidence and emotional connection.

II. Outcomes Observed

The application of the Spark of Life Philosophy has led to meaningful and measurable outcomes across all stakeholders—clients, staff, and families.

1. Client Transformation
   

• Improved Emotional Well-being: Daycare as well as Home Care clients displayed more frequent expressions of joy, laughter, and affection. There was a noticeable reduction in anxiety and agitation, particularly in clients previously labeled as “withdrawn” or “difficult to engage.”
• Rekindled Identity: Staff began to tailor activities around each client’s life story, leading to renewed interest in music, storytelling, gardening, and prayer rituals. One client, formerly non-verbal, began humming along to familiar Bengali songs when gently engaged with warmth and eye contact.
• Enhanced Social Connection: Peer relationships deepened. Clients began initiating greetings, offering help to each other, and participating more actively in group events like our monthly “Misti Adda” (Sweet Chat) and memory-sharing circles.

2.   Staff Engagement and Confidence

• Reduced Burnout: Caregivers reported feeling more purposeful and less fatigued. The philosophy helped shift their perception of dementia from “loss of function” to “presence of ability.”
• Empowered Communication: Staff gained confidence in using emotionally connecting language and learned how to respond to unmet needs with patience rather than redirection.
• Workplace Harmony: Teams became more collaborative, often sharing insights about what “lights up” each client and brainstorming meaningful engagement together.

3.   Family Reconnection and Satisfaction

• Renewed Bonding: Several families noted a sense of emotional “reconnection” with their loved ones. One daughter shared that after weeks of disengagement, her mother smiled and held her hand again—“as if she recognized me from the heart, not the mind.”
• Greater Involvement: Families expressed interest in co-creating legacy scrapbooks and life-story albums, which became therapeutic tools and conversation starters.
• Positive Feedback: Satisfaction surveys via helpline showed a marked improvement in perceived quality of care, especially in emotional well-being and dignity of their loved ones.

To read the full article by Nilanjana Maulik:

To learn more about the Spark of Life Model of Care:

If you are a leader in healthcare wishing to find out how to introduce the Spark of Life Model of Care to your service we invite you to email us on info@dementiacareinternational.com

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Providing International Best Practice:
Focus on Uganda

By Richard Semanda and Jesca Nakiribango

The Spark of Life Model of Care, currently implemented on 5 continents offers governments and international healthcare providers, a cost-effective best practice resource to address the challenges in dementia care and solve the key issues. In particular, the Model equips leaders in global dementia services with evidence based, culturally appropriate and human rights-orientated education that they can deliver to their teams so they can provide integrated person-centred care.

Transforming lives with Spark of Life Model of Care in Uganda

We have observed unpredictable health challenges in people in Uganda, and especially when it comes to older persons with dementia, the situation is worse as the public has outdated, negative common perceptions and assumptions about the condition. There is a rapidly accelerating ageing population in Africa, and the problem has been compounded by the fact that there were no training opportunities for dementia care. In 2015, a Global Ageing Network Conference was held in Perth, Australia. This is where we learned about the Spark of Life Model of Care from Dementia Care International. Their charity arm Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life supported us to receive the essential Spark of Life Master Leadership Program education to help Ugandans.

Through these generous sponsors we attended the three-week intensive Spark of Life Master Leadership Program in November 2015.

We have utilized our new knowledge to pioneer Africa’s first rehabilitative Spark of Life Day Centre which is transforming many lives of people with dementia in Kampala and the surrounding region in Uganda. Through educating the local and wider community, our team now provides vital support and information, as dementia in Uganda is often misunderstood and even feared.

Jesca educating Nuns of Nkokonjeru Convent in the Spark of Life Philosophy & role modelling how to connect with a person who has dementia.

To read the full article by Richard Semanda and Jesca Nakiribango:

To learn more about the Spark of Life Model of Care:

If you are a leader in healthcare wishing to find out how to introduce the Spark of Life Model of Care to your service we invite you to email us on info@dementiacareinternational.com

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A Reawakened Sense of Purpose for our Team

By James Mbatia Kinuthia, Spark of Life Master Practitioner Sir James Care Homes, Nairobi, Kenya

Our recent one-day Spark of Life Model of Care workshop facilitated by  Keziah Mungai, Spark of Life Master Practitioner and Care Manager was a deeply enriching experience. The reception from all participants—volunteers, health workers, and staff—was overwhelmingly positive. Many shared that the workshop reawakened their sense of purpose and reminded them of the profound impact of compassionate, heart-centered care. Volunteers felt more confident and connected, while health workers and staff appreciated the renewed focus on empathy, dignity, and emotional connection.

There was a genuine sense of inspiration and unity throughout the day. We also encouraged participants to write reflective diaries, which captured some truly moving insights.

Both James Mbatia Kinuthia and Keziah Mungai are scholarship recipients from Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life.

To donate to Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life:

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Spark of Life Model of Care featured on PlusTV Africa

On 6^th April 2025 Elizabeth Aina-Scott, Founder of Hebron Love and Care Centres in Nigeria, and Hilary Lee, President of Dementia Care International gave a live TV interview for “Today with John and Helen” on PlusTV Africa, which reaches 30 African countries with 12 million viewers.

The “Today with John and Helen” program has been created to support individuals in the community with knowledge to help them overcome the various challenges in life. It is the mission of the hosts John and Helen to help families achieve equilibrium and address many of life’s concerns.

The hosts were interested to hear how Elizabeth Aina-Scott had chosen to become a Spark of Life Master Practitioner and how the Spark of Life Model of Care has enriched her work with people with dementia in her day centres and inspired her to set up a specialized nursing home for people with dementia.

Hilary was invited to explain the urgent challenges faced by people with dementia and their families in Nigeria and what needs to happen to address these issues.

We would like to express our appreciation to the Hosts; Helen and John of Plus TV Africa for their thoughtful and insightful questions and for their passion to make a difference in the lives of families in Nigeria.

We invite you to watch the full interview on this You Tube, and stay tuned to a part 2 of this interview to be recorded soon in the near future.

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CommonAge’s new Dementia in the Commonwealth Report

Congratulations to Richard Semanda, Founder of Geriatric Respite Care Foundation and Jesca Nakibirango, Founder of the Rise and Shine Dyslexic Association, both Spark of Life Master Practitioners, who received full scholarships from Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life, for being featured prominently in this report for the life-changing work they are doing with people with dementia in Uganda.

The Spark of Life Model of Care is featured in the Solution section of CommonAge’s new Dementia in the Commonwealth Report. Andrew Larpent, Emeritus Chair and Founder of CommonAge is presenting the report at CHOGM (Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting) this coming 21st-26th October 2024 in Samoa.

“We call on the Commonwealth leaders to encourage both public and private funds to further the uptake of this best practice initiative in the Commonwealth, which has demonstrated to have a significant humanitarian impact across 8 diverse Commonwealth countries. The model optimises the quality of care, facilitates the recruitment and retention of staff, and prevents elder abuse, which are 3 of the key issues being experienced currently in dementia care.” Hilary Lee, President of Dementia Care International said.

In this latest news article from CommonAge, see Master Practitioner Jesca Nakiribango illustrated with two of Geriatric Respite Care Foundation’s day centre clients.

You can read the CommonAge article here:

To donate to Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life:

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On 12th September Jane Verity, Founder of Dementia Care International, presented at the 2024 Annual Eldercare Symposium, Cincinnati, Ohio USA, hosted by The Law Practice of Dennison Keller.

The topic Jane presented to an enthusiastic audience of health professionals and family carers was ‘The Spark of LifePhilosophy and Model of Care – Enriching the lives of people living with dementia’.

Participants enjoyed an introduction to the internationally recognized Spark of Life Philosophy. Jane explained how this program gives people a deep understanding and skills of how to connect with people who have dementia to facilitate the best possible relationship based on empathy, kindness, and compassion.

This knowledge and understanding is also the foundation for preventing behaviors of concern and reducing the need for psychotropic medication. The program is centered around humanizing the experience of dementia.

If you are a healthcare leader looking to bring the inspiring Spark of Life Education to your team, we invite you to email us on info@dementiacareinternational.com

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Spark of Life Model of Care Featured
on TCV News Nigeria

This Monday 9th September 2024, Elizabeth Aina-Scott, Spark of Life Master Practitioner and Hilary Lee, President of Dementia Care International were interviewed by the Radio and TV hosts David Awanebi and Topsy Gimba of TVC News  which streams live:

The interview focused on the launch of the Dementia in the Commonwealth Report in which the Spark of Life Model of Care is featured prominently as a best practice solution to key issues being faced in dementia care in 8 Commonwealth countries. Hilary explained how the model supports healthcare leaders to optimise the quality of care they provide, attract new staff, and prevent elder abuse.

Elizabeth shared details about how her HebronLove and Care Centres and Home in Lagos and Ibadan have benefited from implementing this practical and compassionate Model of Care. Her staff have gained new skills and confidence and are providing a high quality of care to the residents with dementia.

Click here to read more about the Spark of Life Model of Care in Nigeria >>

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Today, 6^th September 2024 the ground-breaking Dementia in the Commonwealth Report is being launched. The report is the initiative of CommonAge, an international organisation working to enhance the lives of older people in the 56 Commonwealth countries, home to 33% of the people of the world (2.5 billion people). Andrew Larpent, Emeritus Chair of CommonAge invited Dementia Care International to contribute to this report about the impact of its Spark of Life Model of Care as Best Practice in the Commonwealth, having witnessed the profound benefits of this model to CommonAge Ambassadors across Africa and India since 2015.

The report features Spark of Life Master Practitioners working in practice to enhance the lives of people with dementia and their communities across the Commonwealth, including Sailesh Mishra, India on the front page of the document. There are contributions from 13 Spark of Life Master Practitioners from 8 countries featured along with a comprehensive article from Dementia Care International in Appendix 3 of the document.

Below is a summary of Dementia Care International’s featured article.

The Spark of Life Model of Care Providing Best Practice in Dementia in the Commonwealth

By Jane Verity, Founder, Dementia Care International and Hilary Lee, President, Dementia Care International

The Spark of Life Model of Care offers governments and international healthcare providers an evidence-based pathway to achieve integrated, culturally appropriate, and human rights-orientated dementia care.

CommonAge Emertius Chairman Andrew Larpent reports: “The Spark of Life Model of Care provides a best practice transferable framework of education and care practices that are meaningful and effective in diverse cultures and in all areas of care including community and palliative care.”

Since 2007, the Model has been researched, further developed, and field-tested on 5 continents and is now an internationally awarded best practice Model of Care that meets WHO definition for a best practice.

Currently, 8 Commonwealth countries are implementing the Spark of Life Model of Care in: New Zealand, Uganda, Zambia, Nigeria, Kenya, India, Singapore, and Australia.

 From their experiences implementing the Model in diverse cultures, Commonwealth healthcare providers are collectively reporting that:

• Residents and Clients show specific improvements in mental abilities, language, self-esteem, and emotional well-being.
• Staff experience a profound attitudinal shift regarding dementia from being task-oriented to being person-oriented leading to enriched care experiences.
• The Healthcare Services have increased retention and recruitment of staff as well as excelling in audits and accreditation.
• In the community, families have gained skills to care longer for people with dementia at home.

Recommendations

Dementia Care International recommends:

1. For Health Care Services Globally to include the Spark of Life Model of Care in their Dementia Action Plan to provides a best practice, evidence-based pathway to achieve integrated and culturally appropriate person-centered care in dementia.
2. For Commonwealth Governments to ensure that appropriate funds are available for Health Care Services to implement the best practice Spark of Life Model of Care.

3. For Policy Makers in each Commonwealth country to include the Spark of Life Model of Care in policies as an important tool to meet the recommendations for dementia care as outlined in the WHO Global Action Plan on the Public Health Response to Dementia.

To access the full Dementia in the Commonwealth report click here >>

To read more about the Spark of Life Model of Care as Best Practice click here >>

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#BeMyVoice Campaign

Here is an article by Selvi Izeti, Spark of Life Master Practitioner at the Centre for Rehabilitation for Torture Victims, where the Spark of Life Model of Care is supporting the healing of trauma victims.

Selvi Izeti Çarkaxhiu,
Kosova Rehabilitation Centre for Torture Victims

April 14th in Kosovo is marked as the Memorial Day for Survivors of Sexual Violence during the Last War in Kosovo. In honor of April 14th, KRCT has launched a social campaign:

#“Rehabilitation, healing, and justice for survivors are my obligation!”

#BeMyVoice,  which will run until June 19th, the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict. This campaign aims to raise awareness about conflict-related sexual violence, involving various local and international representatives and collaborators.

Our campaign focuses on sharing the purpose and objectives of our efforts, emphasizing the importance of rehabilitation, healing, and justice for survivors of sexual violence during conflicts. We aim to highlight the ongoing challenges faced by survivors and advocate for comprehensive support services, including medical care, psychosocial rehabilitation, and access to justice .

The campaign has garnered a highly positive response, with widespread support and active engagement from both local and international communities.

As we continue our campaign, we believe it is crucial for the global community to be aware of the consequences of conflict-related sexual violence. By standing in solidarity with survivors and advocating for their rights, we can work towards a world free from the horrors of sexual violence in conflict and ensure that survivors receive the support and justice they deserve.

Click here >> to read more about Memorial Day for Survivors of Sexual Violence during the Last War in Kosovo.

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David Wren, Global Ambassador for Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life

New 2024 Tour:  USA

We invite you to watch this new message from David Wren about his upcoming fundraising bike tour:

Please support David Wren in raising funds for Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life and their unique approach to the wellbeing of anyone experiencing dementia. Thank you.

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David Wren, Global Ambassador for Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life

New 2024 Tour:  USA

David Wren, a Professional Golfer, has travelled extensively around the world with a personal passion for visiting developing countries.  Having climbed throughout the Himalayas and completed bike crossings of Vietnam, Tibet, Nepal and South America, he set a challenge to ride ‘halfway round’ the world to raise money for Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life.

From David Wren:

What started as “Halfway around the World” in 2012 has now become an “Around the World” project. The journey has so far consisted of 6 legs with the shortest legs consisting of 1 month on the road right up to 3 months on the pedals.

From my point of view once I complete my crossing of the USA, I have completed a circumnavigation of the globe totaling roughly 28,000 kms.

The upcoming ride from Las Vegas to Tulsa will see me on the road for 23 days and the plan is to complete the 2000kms plus in that time.

Click here to read more about this Around the World Fundraising Tour >>

Please support David Wren in raising funds for Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life and their unique approach to the wellbeing of anyone experiencing dementia. Thank you.

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Transforming Lives:
Focus on Kosovo

Kosova Rehabilitation Centre for Torture Victims (KRCT)

Pictures taken from Feride and Selvi’s first education presentation on the Spark of Life Philosophy to their colleagues

KRCT is a non-governmental organization, established in response to the need for rehabilitative care for people who endured severe war-related atrocities (1998-1999). KRCT’s founding aim was to provide treatment and rehabilitation for torture and trauma victims and promote the respect for human rights for all Kosovo ethnicities. People who needed such support included amongst others: war survivors, especially sexual violence survivors, political prisoners, repatriated persons, asylum seekers, refugees, returnees, internally displaced persons, and statelessness persons.

To make a donation:

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Concert for Spark of Life

October 2nd, 2023

To make a donation:

Concert Programme

Introduced by:
Jane Seymour OBE

Speaker:
Dr Vivienne Cox,
63-year-old bio scientist and amateur singer explains how her life has changed since her recent ALS diagnosis.

Speaker:
Nilanjana Maulik,
Secretary General, Alzheimer’s and Related Disorder Society of India, Calcutta Chapter, Spark of Life Master Practitioner and CommonAge Fellow, explains how the Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life has changed lives in India. It includes a beautiful musical rendition of a poem written by Tagore, a Nobel Prize for Literature winner.

Performer:
Heerraa Ravindran, from Malaysia.

Performer:
The Joy Gospel Singers, from Malta.

Performer:
Devon Packer, from Canada.

Performer:
The Phoenix Collective, from Australia.

Speakers:
Richard Semanda, Founder, Geriatric Respite Care Foundation, Uganda, Spark of Life Master Practitioner and CommonAge Ambassador
Jesca Nakibirango, Founder of Rise and Shine Dyslexic Organisation, Uganda and Spark of Life Master Practitioner explains how the Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life has changed lives in Uganda.

Performer:
The Pan African Choir ‘Malaika’, from Uganda.

The concert was launched online on October 1st, 2023, and video of the concert is now available to view:

To make a donation:

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Spark of Life Model of Care featured
at Global Ageing Network Seminar

On Wednesday 20th September 2023 Jane Verity, Founder and CEO and Hilary Lee, President of Dementia Care International co -presented a live international seminar on invitation of Katie Sloan and Shannon Davis who lead the Global Aging Network.

The Global Ageing Network is an international network of leaders in ageing services, housing, research, technology and design. The organisation brings together experts from around the world, lead education initiatives and provides a place for innovative ideas in aging services to be explored. They pave the way to improve best practices in aged care so that older people everywhere can live healthier, stronger, more independent lives.

In 2009 Dementia Care International received an international award from Global Aging Network (then called IAHSA) for Excellence in Ageing Services for its optimistic Whole System approach to dementia rehabilitation and rementia.

The topic of the seminar was: Facilitating Best Practice with the Spark of Life Philosophy and Model of Care, illustrating the significant developments that have occurred since the award was received in 2009.

Jane and Hilary covered the 3 elements of the best practice Spark of Life Model of Care as well as the benefits from implementing the Model.

Two Spark of Life Master Practitioners provided supporting information from their practice in diverse healthcare services.

Mischeal McCormick, Owner Operator and Spark of Life Master Practitioner, Adriel House and Rest Home, Amberley, New Zealand

Mischeal McCormick is a Registered Nurse, Spark of Life Master Practitioner, and owner operator of two adjacent residential care homes specifically for people with dementia, where she and her team are creating the true meaning of home and community.

At the GAN Seminar Mischeal highlighted how they are implementing the Spark of Life Model of Care, what it has meant for her service, in reputation, in attracting and retaining staff and in occupancy.

In 2012, Mischeal attended the Spark of Life Master Leadership Program where she created her vision for Adriel Rest Home and later Adriel House – a vision to be the RESIDENTS’ home where they can live life to the fullest and where they are surrounded by love and compassion in their everyday.

Through having embedded the Spark of Life Philosophy into all care practices, Mischeal and her team are able to support people with dementia who can not be cared for elsewhere. The quality of care facilitates a positive transformation in ways many had not thought possible.

Mischeal is highly regarded by auditors in her country and has been invited to present at their conferences on how she and her team achieve excellence in dementia care.

In 2019, both dementia specific homes were certified as Spark of Life Centres of Excellence by Dementia Care International, and this annual certification has been sustained each year ever since.

James Mbatia Kinuthia, Founder and Spark of Life Master Practitioner, Sir James Care Homes, Nairobi Kenya

James is the Founder of Nairobi’s first aged care home. He has dedicated his life to serve the most vulnerable people in his community for whom there would be no other services supporting people with dementia.

As part of the seminar, James explained the benefits his service has already experienced from adopting the Spark of Life Model of Care for his clients, families and staff.

He is a CommonAge Ambassador and heard about the Spark of Life Model of Care through this network. He chairs 3 eldercare organisations in Kenya and is a recognized spokesperson in his country for innovation in dementia care.

In 2021, James was awarded a scholarship from Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life to become certified as a Spark of Life Master Practitioner, so he could achieve his vision of positively influencing the lives of people with dementia in East Africa and to enable his service to become an inspiring role model for others in Kenya.

We wish to thank Global Ageing Network kindly hosting this presentation for global healthcare leaders.

The seminar was recorded and will be available soon for viewing- we will keep you updated with the link to this.

You can view a video of the presentation here:

An Invitation to Health Care Leaders

We invite you to contact us to find out more about the Spark of Life Education and Spark of Life Model of Care in the context of your service. Please contact us.

Adriel House and Adriel Rest Home Celebrating Global Spark of Life Month

30th August, 2023

By Mischeal McCormick, Spark of Life Master Practitioner, Owner of 2 Dementia Specific Homes, Adriel House and Rest Home, Amberley, New Zealand 

On August 4^th 2023 Adriel House and Adriel Resthome, both Spark of Life Centres of Excellence were featured in the North Canterbury News paper in New Zealand.

Residents were invited each day last week to pick flowers form the gardens around the homes and arrange them in a decorated recycled tin. Attached to each was a beautiful heart shape in bright coloured card with a hint on how to look after our brain, communicate with a person with memory loss, etc. and Dementia Care International’s website. Residents were then invited to present these to a total of 40 local businesses in Amberley to display on their counter and refer to the hint or website for more information.

This has resulted in really successful and positive interactions and community involvement. One of the recipiant business’s flagged the Rest Home Van down a few days later to ask if a thank you card from their staff could be given to the resident who deliver their posies and they had written a beautiful descriptive appreciation. The resident was our local policeman and he loved the opportunity to give the posies, and everyone had a great conversation, enjoying the community connections.

Spark of Life Model of Care In Nigeria:
The Hebron Love and Care Centres and Care Home

22nd August, 2023

By Elizabeth Aina-Scott, Spark of Life Master Practitioner and CEO of Hebron Love and Care Centres and Care Home

Spark of Life: The How of Unconditional Love

Since 2016, when I first heard about the Spark of Life, it has been joy and excitement all around me. You never can know the depth of care until you experience the true love which the ‘Spark of Life’ brings.  This new philosophy of care has so much to offer the rejected, the diseased, the downcast and the hopeless.

Through its person-centred approach, challenges are turned into celebrations. There is no down moment, as one positive event leads to another. The Spark of Life Model of Care has changed my entire perception about care, love and relationships.

Through the education from Dementia Care International, I learnt the how of unconditional love, patience to tolerate momentary challenges, understanding to shift my focus from the disease, disability, difficult behaviour and differences, and look behind these ‘4 D’s’ connecting heart to heart, soul to soul of the other person focusing on the ‘angel’ inside rather than the confronting what I call the lion outside.

I have learnt that through emotional connection, heart to heart, soul to soul, I can bring out the angel in the most difficult person. With focused attention of unconditional love, accomplishing new tasks has never been so easy. Practicing Spark of Life has made me more desirable by clients. Teaching the philosophy of Spark of Life has connected me in an unprecedented manner to the society at large.

So friends, ignite the spark and life is renewed, rekindling new hope and aspiration.

Thank you Dementia Care International, and Jane Verity and Hilary Lee. Your Model of Care changed my world.

The Spark of Life Philosophy and Its Application in Supporting Survivors of Sexual Violence during the war in The Kosova Rehabilitation Centre for Torture Victims

26th July, 2023

The Kosova Rehabilitation Centre for Torture Victims, is established in 1999, and, we have been working with survivors of torture and war time trauma, specificaly wartime sexual violence.

The aftermath of sexual violence can be an immensely challenging and traumatic experience for survivors. Coping with the physical, emotional, and psychological effects requires a compassionate and comprehensive approach. Participating in the Dementia Care International’s Master Leadership Program, it was   an amazing opportunity for our capacity building in our organization to see the survivors through the light of The “Spark of Life’’ philosophy which provides healing of deep emotional wounds, through interactions based on a profound connection, human to human without judgment, aim to foster kindness, compassion, empathy, respect, and an attitude of unconditional love.

The Spark of Life Philosophy is based on the belief that every individual possesses an innate spark—a core essence that is resilient, valuable, and capable of healing. This philosophy emphasizes focusing on the survivor’s strengths, resilience, and personal agency, rather than viewing them solely through the lens of victimhood.

Survivors of sexual violence often experience feelings of powerlessness, self-blame, and diminished self-worth. By embracing the Spark of Life Philosophy,  as therapists  we help survivors reclaim their sense of power and autonomy by validating their experiences, acknowledging their resilience, and emphasizing their capacity for growth and healing.

The Spark of Life Philosophy emphasizes the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment for survivors. As professionals working with survivors of sexual violence we incorporate trauma-informed practices that prioritize empathy, respect, and non-judgment. By fostering a sense of trust, survivors are more likely to feel comfortable sharing their experiences and seeking the help they need.

Isolation is a common experience for survivors of sexual violence. The Spark of Life Philosophy recognizes the significance of human connections and community support in the healing process. We  facilitate survivor support groups, connect survivors with resources, and encourage them to engage with their communities. Through these connections, survivors can find validation, understanding, and a sense of belonging.

While The Spark of Life Philosophy was developed for supporting people with Dementia, in practice  it has universal principles, that have been well integrated into our work with survivors of sexual violence. By focusing on resilience, strengths, and self-compassion, we aim to help survivors reclaim their lives and move forward on their healing journey. By integrating these principles into our therapeutic practices and support systems, we provide survivors with the tools they need to overcome the trauma and thrive in their lives beyond victimhood.

Selvi Izeti Çarkaxhiu
– Clinical psychologist and Spark of Life Master Practitioner

Help support Jo Marshall’s fundraiser for Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life

Jo Marshall, a TAFE lecturer and grandmother, is running in this year’s HBF Run for a Reason Sunday 21 May, over a distance of 12 kilometres in Perth, Western Australia.

Jo shared that her reasons for participating in this event are:

“To fundraise for the Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life.  This Foundation has a focus on supporting the wellbeing and quality of life of people living with dementia and in aged care. It’s so important to me that older peoplewho have worked and contributed all their lives should be respected and well cared for, not neglected. The Spark of Life  Philosophy and Model of Care have real and practical ways to make this happen.

Maintaining my own fitness is important to me as I know that exercise helps both physical and mental health, including reduced risk of dementia.”

To support Jo’s run you can donate directly to Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life

Bank Transfer

​Bank: Bendigo Bank
Account Name: Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life

BSB: 633 000
Acc No: 143 233 328

Reference: Your last name

Jo thanks you for your support of this life-changing cause!

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David Wren:
2023 Central America Fundraising Bike Tour – Update

March 15th, 2023

“I’m getting close to halfway of the ride and crossed the border into Costa Rica yesterday. It has been hot and dusty so far but hitting the coast area today and hoping for some cooler weather.

750 kms so far cycled and 900 to go.”

You can learn more about David’s Story here:

Please consider donating to support David’s efforts and Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life:

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David Wren:
2023 Central America Fundraising Bike Tour

David Wren commenced a new Fundraising Bike Tour on March 1st 2023!

This intrepid adventure will see him cycling for 21 days across 5 countries in Central America – El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama, including a final day crossing of the Panama Canal.

As a Global Ambassador for Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life, David is again cycling to raise funds for this life-changing charity.

You can learn more about David’s Story here:

Please consider donating to support David’s efforts and Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life:

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Spark of Life Model of Care acclaimed by Commonwealth Aged Care Leaders

The following article is reproduced with permission from the CommonAge website:

Click here to read this article on the CommonAge website.

Our Chairman Andrew Larpent says: “The Spark of Life Model of Care provides a transferable framework of education and care practices that are meaningful and effective in diverse cultures and in all areas of care including community and palliative care, and we are sincerely grateful for the support our Ambassadors receive from Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life.”

Spark of Life delivering excellence in dementia care across the Commonwealth

By Annie Waddington-Feather
21st September, 2022

David Wren Interview

David Wren, Global Ambassador for Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life was interviewed radio by Todd Johnson on 6PR on Tuesday 6^th September 2022 about his 22,0000 km ride around the world for the foundation and why he is dedicating this ride to his mum Althea Wren.

Listen to the interview here:

David Wren 6PR interview, Part 1:

David Wren 6PR interview, Part 2:

Please help David by donating to his fundraising
efforts for Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life:

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Special Announcement:
David Wren Becomes Global Ambassador for Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life

David Wren, a Professional Golfer, has travelled extensively around the world with a personal passion for visiting developing countries.  Having climbed throughout the Himalayas and completed bike crossings of Vietnam, Tibet, Nepal and South America, he set a challenge to ride ‘halfway round’ the world to raise money for Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life.

Consisting of over 22,000km by bike, David’s journey started in Ireland, travelling through Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, finally returning to Australia to ride the final leg across the Nullabor to Melbourne, Victoria.

David Wren shares his motivation to raise money for Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life:

Mum spent her life advocating for the rights of the disabled and their right to participate in all of life’s activities and workplaces.

The diagnosis of dementia for Mum meant sitting on a chair in a nursing home will little or no interaction with everyday life. Any signs of positiveness or happiness also left.

I wondered why people diagnosed with dementia were not given every opportunity to continue participating in life.

I came across Dementia Care International, Jane Verity and Hilary Lee. I could instantly relate to their focus on maximizing the lifestyle and happiness of people with dementia.

I thought, “How can I help”?

I had a light globe moment: “bike touring is for me”…
No matter what country you are in as human beings we all strive for the same things. Peace and security, education for the next generation, political and financial stability, fresh food, family connection and community.

In 2010 I started to hatch a plan to take a gap year and attempt a super long-distance solo ride. A 22,000km ride from my Family name ancestral village in Ireland, Athboy, County Meath, to my home city Melbourne Australia.

The ride included overland crossings of France, Switzerland, Italy, Croatia, Montenegro, Macedonia, Greece, Turkey, Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, China with the final leg from Perth to Melbourne via my hometown Griffith, NSW.

The trip included fundraising, with all money raised going to Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life.

Please help David by donating to his fundraising
efforts for Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life:

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Kosovo Celebrating Global Spark of Life Month

Kosova Rehabilitation Centre for Torture Victims (KRCT) director Dr. Feride Rushiti and psychologist Selvi Izeti Çarkaxhiu, both Spark of Life Master Practitioners, are celebrating Global Spark of Life Month, with their team. ⁠ ⁠

Last year, supported by Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life, Feride and Selvi took part in the intensive three-week Spark of Life Master Leadership Program that has enabled them to introduce the Spark of Life Model of Care into Kosovo for the first time. They recently translated the Spark of Life Education to Albanian to pioneer the education with their colleagues in Kosovo.⁠

Feride says “The Spark of Life Philosophy is an added value to our work with our clients suffering from trauma, since many components of this philosophy can be easily adapted to work with clients that don’t suffer from dementia, but who would benefit greatly from this holistic, encouraging and humanistic approach to inspire the human soul. KRCT would like to thank the Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life for the continuous support towards the capacity building in KRCT and for enriching our perspective in the field of rehabilitation”.⁠

To support the life-enriching work of Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life, click the button below. Your donation is greatly appreciated.

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Uganda Celebrating Global Spark of Life Month

Meet Richard Semanda, Spark of Life Master Practitioner pictured here with colleagues Atuhaire Daphine in the orange polo and Nabulya Oliver in the purple polo.

Richard’s organisation Geriatric Respite Care Foundation, based in Kampala, Uganda was the first healthcare service to bring the Spark of Life Philosophy and Model of Care to Africa. Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life supported Richard, together with his colleague Jesca Nakiribango to travel to Perth Australia to become certified as Spark of Life Master Practitioners. Through educating their community, Richard and Jesca are able to give much needed support and information, as dementia is often misunderstood and even feared.

Richard and Jesca have utilized their new knowledge to pioneer Africa’s first rehabilitative Spark of Life Day Centre which is transforming many lives of people with dementia in Kampala and the surrounding region in Uganda.

Meet Jesca Nakibirango, Spark of Life Master Practitioner, Founder & Executive Director of Rise and Shine Dyslexic Organisation and Director of the Munyonyo Learning Centre, a pioneering school in Kampala, Uganda for children with neurological disorders.

As a Master Practitioner, Jesca is implementing the Spark of Life Philosophy with her students, which is having wonderful results,  empowering them to ‘walk tall’ with confidence and to also become volunteers for the Geriatric Respite Foundation. The students form a special relationship with the seniors with dementia, as Richard and Jesca’s centres share the same building.

Please donate to Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life
to support this life changing cause:

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Fundraiser Buzz before World Premiere

29 August 2021 marked the World Premiere of Ruby’s Choice, a heart-warming and perception shifting film about dementia, starring Jane Seymour. The film was shown for the first time at the Australian film festival, CinefestOZ in the ‘Heart’ Theatre in Margaret River, Western Australia.

Included in the ticket price for Ruby’s Choice was a sumptuous high tea served in the art gallery foyer. In addition, volunteers from Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life, the official charity associated with the film, created a buzz of excitement with its raffle as guests arrived.

Prices comprised of sought after artwork generously donations by local acclaimed artists Leon Pericles and Phil Hollett, as well as a signed limited edition photograph from Michael Budd, producer and director of Ruby’s Choice featuring Jane Seymour in a scene from the film.

Leon Pericles, donated a beautiful limited edition etching of Lava Lamps, as well as a copy of his new book ‘Just Scratching the Surface’, about his last 50 years of as an innovative and inspiring artist.

Also abundant hampers from the Margaret River Farmer’s Market, and vouchers from Margaret River tourist attractions were part of the attractive raffle prices.

“A special and heart-felt appreciation goes to all who donated prizes, bought raffle tickets and to the volunteers who assisted on the day as well as to the CinefesOZ  team catering for the delicious High Tea. Also a sincere thank you to the team at the stunning Heart Theatre for their support in making it such a memorable event for all”, said Hilary Lee, President of Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life.

Funds raised during the raffle go directly towards enriching the lives of people with dementia globally, providing grants for equity of access to the life-changing and innovative Spark of Life Model of Care. The significant benefits for people with dementia, their families and carers are showcased at the end as part of the credits of Ruby’s Choice.

Ruby’s Choice is expected to be coming to cinemas in 2022.

For more articles about Ruby’s Choice: To donate to the Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life:____________________________________________________________________________

60^th Birthday Fundraising Celebration at the Kirribilli Club

Lukas Bendt
Ambassador for Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life

On Saturday 15^th May, Lukas Bendt, President of the Kirribilli Club, Sydney, is celebrating his 60^th Birthday, with a fundraising party to support the charity he is passionate about: Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life.

Back in 2011, Lukas first became involved with the Foundation, at a Sydney Roosters home game dedicated to raise funds for Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life. Lukas was there as a sponsor of the match.  Jane Verity (Founder) and Hilary Lee (President) were there representing the Foundation. They met Lukas on the pitch in a break where they spoke to the supporters. Lukas generously committed an extra donation of $5000 to the Foundation.

Lukas has personally been touched by dementia and he was inspired by the purpose of the Foundation, to bring the Spark of Life to people with dementia.

He became an advocate and Ambassador of the foundation and was instrumental in supporting Spark of Life Education to be held at the Kirribilli Club for leaders and health care professionals. As busy executive he still committed 3 days to undertake and successfully complete the certified Spark of Life Practitioner Course.

Over the years, despite many life challenges, Lukas has stayed passionate about supporting the foundation, and together with the Kirribilli Club, made annual donations.

Lukas invites you to support his fundraising event and donate to Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life.

Ruby’s Choice

Acclaimed Philanthropist Sir Owen Glenn of the Glenn Family Foundation, is funding the production of ‘Ruby’s Choice’, an Australian Feature film by Amazing People Pictures starring Jane Seymour OBE. Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life is the official charity associated with the film.

‘On behalf of the Glenn Family Foundation, I have chosen to support the Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life with 50% of the profits of Ruby’s Choice.

This innovative film will not only help shift perceptions about dementia, but by supporting the Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life, it will also enable the provision of much needed practical help. It will enable this Australian based health promotion charity to alleviate emotional suffering and ignite the Spark of Life in people with dementia, their families and carers,’ Sir Owen states.

Ruby’s Choice is a globally important film of our time. It tells the story of Ruby, a woman living alone with early dementia and its impact on her and her family when she is no longer able to live independently. The film shows through Ruby’s granddaughter Tash’s eyes the humanity of dementia – that there is still a person there with memories, emotion and value.

The story of Ruby’s Choice shares the same heart-centred message as Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life. Ruby’s Choice is about showing the importance of love and compassion. The film role models how people with dementia can live active and meaningful lives and still have so much to contribute.

Ruby’s Choice, written by the Australian award-winning screen and script writer Paul Mahoney, was inspired from his own previous personal experiences and insight of working in aged and dementia care in Australia.

Over the past 2 years, the Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life and Dementia Care International have been supporting Producer and Director Michael Budd  and his team from Amazing People Pictures in the ground work of this film.  This boutique film production company was founded in London and is based in Sydney. Michael Budd is a Director-Actor with a vision to help Australia produce outstanding films that are out-of-the-box, original and innovative.

Highly regarded and accomplished actor Jane Seymour OBE, will portray the character Ruby, a loving person and grandmother. Jane is well known for her extensive career in film, theatre and TV and through her performance will put a spotlight on the human perspective of dementia.. She draws inspiration from her own mother who was a Dutch prisoner of war and a courageous role model.

A Wedding in the Hills – Spark of Life Bonbonniere

On 2^nd November 2019 Nikita Marshall and Dalitso Mwale were married in a beautiful garden wedding in the hills in Perth, Western Australia. They took this opportunity to support the Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life with personalised in lieu of bonbonniere cards .

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New Upcoming Malcolm Young  Fundraiser Concert – 15th November 2019, Sydney

Since February 2017, rock ‘n’ roll royalty have continued to come together in celebration of the legacy left behind from AC/DC’s elder statesman, Malcolm Young.

For the first time this concert will now venture to Sydney. The event, which has already gone on to raise over $30,000 for the foundation since it’s inception, will be hosted at Castle Hill RSL on Friday November 15th 2019. Tickets now on sale through www.castlehillrsl.com.au

Featuring Past & Present Members of:

Simon Wright – Ex AC/DC
Ian Hulme – Choirboys
Paul Wheeler – Icehouse
Jeff Consi – Badloves
Nat Allison – Suzi Qattro Band
Spencer Jones – The Voice
Paul Woseen – Screaming Jets
Joel McDonald – Bruce Kulick / Gilbey Clarke
Paul Christie – Mondo Rock
Cynthia Gallie – Let There Be Rock Orchestrated
James Morley – The Angels
Randall Waller – Rose Tattoo
Virginia Lillye
Peter Northcote
& more to be announced…..

On sale now: https://www.castlehillrsl.com.au/entertainment/box-office/malcolm-young-benefit-concert/

David Wren- Riding Around the World for Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life – Aiming for $20,000

David Wren from Melbourne Australia has done numerous bicycle rides around the world to fundraise for Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life.

‘I invite you to follow me on my next journey riding through Pakistan in 2019 and donate to the important work of the Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life.’

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Malcolm Young Tribute Concert Raises Funds for the Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life – February 2019

The rock’n’roll royalty of Australian music banded together on 2nd February 2019 for a second year at the Corner Hotel, Melbourne to raise funds for the Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life. This turbo-charged evening of AC/DC classics was in honour of Malcolm Young, Co-founder of legendary rock band AC/DC.

Listen to organiser of the event, James Morley (Angels, Choirboys and now Whole Lotta Rosie):

Craig Newman and Stuart Frazer, from the John Farnham band, are two legendary performing artists who also played at the concert. They speak here in support of the Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life:

A huge thank you from everyone at the Dementia Foundation for Spark of Life to all involved – your contributions help to bring the Spark of Life back to people with dementia, and their families.

Watch more interviews with rock stars here >>