• Cynthia Weynimi

The global rise in dementia cases, particularly Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders, has placed unprecedented strain on families, caregivers, and healthcare systems. As aging populations swell, the traditional care infrastructure struggles to meet the growing demand, leaving family members—primarily spouses and adult children—to bear the emotional, financial, and physical toll of 24/7 caregiving. In the face of limited institutional support and overburdened clinical services, volunteer-driven dementia care programs have emerged as an essential supplement to formal healthcare. These community-led initiatives encompass a wide range of services, including befriending programs, memory cafés, respite care, and companion visits, all aimed at reducing caregiver stress and enhancing the quality of life for dementia patients. This article delves into the structure, impact, and scalability of volunteer-supported dementia programs, drawing insights from case studies, caregiver testimonies, academic literature, and program evaluations. It highlights how trained volunteers can offer personalized, empathetic support that complements clinical care while fostering social inclusion and reducing hospitalization risks. The findings underscore the potential of volunteerism not only as a cost- effective approach to dementia care but also as a compassionate, human-centered solution that can be replicated globally. The paper concludes with strategic recommendations for expanding and professionalizing volunteer programs through policy frameworks, sustainable funding, and cross-sector collaboration. By recognizing and strengthening these grassroots efforts, societies can move toward a more inclusive and responsive model of dementia care—one that values community, dignity, and continuity for those most vulnerable.

Dementia care, volunteerism, caregiving support, memory programs, Alzheimer's disease, community health, informal caregiving, respite services, befriending schemes, memory cafés, social engagement, geriatric care, caregiver burnout, peer support, aging populations, nonprofit health services, social isolation, mental health, compassionate care, civic engagement, dementia- friendly communities.

"Volunteer-Driven Dementia Programs Offer Hope for Overwhelmed Families", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 10, page no.a193-a203, October-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2510023.pdf

"Volunteer-Driven Dementia Programs Offer Hope for Overwhelmed Families", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 10, page no. ppa193-a203, October-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2510023.pdf