The Bermuda Health Council hopes to improve and better understand dementia care on the island.

A statement said the council will conduct a series of surveys and focus groups to “gather feedback on the key areas affecting health system quality, specifically dementia care” throughout the next two months.

The statement added: “Our goal is to gather meaningful insights from those directly impacted by dementia, ensuring we address the real challenges faced by caregivers, families and healthcare professionals.

“Through participation in these surveys and focus groups, the community will play an active role in shaping more effective dementia care services in Bermuda.”

A survey that has been launched online will measure awareness and understanding of dementia.

Participants can complete this survey by visiting healthcouncil.bm/engage or calling 292-6420 on weekdays between 10am and 4pm, and have until November 3 to do so.

Another survey, which will be available from October 28 to November 21, will measure the daily impact dementia has on patients.

There will be three focus groups for those affected by dementia — one on November 5 will centre on caregivers, November 6 on health professionals and November 7 for patients’ family members.

• Visit cognitoforms.comto register for the sessions, which will run for about one hour and be held at midday and 6pm at Sterling House on Wesley Street. Light refreshments will be provided.