Dementia touches almost everyone: as a loved one, as a healthcare professional or as a nursing student. In this article we list the most important facts, and explain how our Dementia Awareness Compression Socks 💜 contribute to research and to activities for people living with dementia.

What exactly is dementia?

Dementia is not a single disease, but an umbrella term for more than 50 conditions that affect the brain. Alzheimer's disease is the best known and most common form. Other forms include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia and frontotemporal dementia. What they share is a gradual decline in memory, thinking, behaviour and everyday functioning.

Facts about dementia

• Worldwide, an estimated 55 million-plus people live with dementia, with millions of new diagnoses every year (source: WHO).
• In the Netherlands around 290,000 people are affected, and this is expected to rise towards half a million by 2040 (source: Alzheimer Nederland).
• Alzheimer's disease accounts for roughly 60 to 70 percent of all cases.
• Dementia does not only affect older people: in young-onset dementia, the first symptoms appear before the age of 65.
• More than half of all people with dementia live at home and are cared for by informal caregivers.
• Lifestyle matters: high blood pressure, hearing loss, smoking, diabetes, physical inactivity, loneliness and air pollution are considered modifiable risk factors for a share of cases (source: Lancet Commission).
• Dementia cannot be cured, but early diagnosis, good support and meaningful daily activities make a big difference to quality of life.

Why activities and daytime support matter so much

Music, movement, reminiscing and simply being together reduce restlessness and loneliness, and give people with dementia a sense of control and enjoyment again. These are exactly the activities that come under pressure when time, staff and funding are short. That is why we actively support them.

Our donation campaign: 50% of the profit

For every pair of Dementia Awareness Compression Socks 💜, 50% of the profit goes to two goals: scientific research into dementia and organising activities for people living with dementia.

This campaign runs while stocks last. Once the socks are sold out, 50% of the total profit on this product will be donated. We publish the amount raised and where it goes transparently on our Impact & donations page, and share updates through our social media channels.

Why compression socks in healthcare?

Healthcare professionals and nursing students are often on their feet for 8 to 12 hours. Compression socks apply gentle pressure to the lower leg and ankle, supporting circulation and helping against heavy, tired and swollen legs at the end of a shift. Unsure because of diabetes, circulation problems or a condition affecting your legs? Check with your doctor first.

Frequently asked questions

How much goes to the cause?

50% of the profit on the Dementia Awareness compression socks.

How long does the campaign run?

While stocks last. Once sold out, 50% of the total profit on this product is donated.

What is the money spent on?

On dementia research and on activities and daytime support for people living with dementia.

How do I know the donation is really made?

We publish the results on our Impact & donations page and share them via our social media channels.

Are the socks also suitable for students and interns?

Yes. They are made for anyone working long shifts, from student to experienced healthcare professional.

What are the early signs of dementia?

Forgetfulness that disrupts daily life, difficulty with language or planning, getting lost in familiar places, and changes in behaviour or mood. If in doubt, discuss it with your GP.

Wear purple, support the cause

Browse the Dementia Awareness Compression Socks 💜 and read more about our ongoing campaigns on the Impact & donations page.