Fernando Aguzzoli Peres

Fernando is a journalist and writer exploring positive ways to communicate dementia with empathy and compassion in different settings, from books to social networks, to connect different generations.

Personal Hero

His grandma, Nilva

Words of Strength

Working purposely, building relationships, connecting

Vision

To reduce the scale and impact of dementia, Fernando believes we need to produce more comprehensible knowledge for caregivers from all social layers. To be effective, we must include patients and family members, and health care professionals in an active role.

Strategy

Fernando is using storytelling as a powerful tool for behavior changes regarding dementia in society and healthcare settings in a wide range of communication outlets; from books and websites to social networks with thousands of followers.

Impact

As an Atlantic Fellow, Fernando has diversified his perspective on dementia strategies, being able to work with different cultures by addressing challenges, finding new interdisciplinary approaches, and especially by increasing my knowledge in multiple fields connected to dementia.

Motivation

Fernando believes communication in health is not a priority in Brazil, presenting enormous challenges to families, communities and healthcare systems. With over two million people living with dementia in a population of 29 million aged 60 or more, fighting dementia is urgent.

Education & Experience

Fernando decided to dedicate himself to the care of his grandmother and best friend living with Alzheimer's disease. Together they ventured into social media to spread this unforgettable chapter in their lives by using positive approaches. Author of the book "Quem, eu?", where he shares part of this adventure, Fernando also launched three children's books addressing dementia, death and incurable diseases between Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Chile, highlighting the importance of including children in difficult conversations.