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Canberrans living with dementia will be able to experience the simple joy of going to the movies thanks to a three-year program of dementia-friendly screenings developed by a UNSW researcher.

The program is an initiative of the ACT Government and has been designed by UNSW senior lecturer in film studies Dr Jodi Brooks (Project Lead, UNSW Sydney), film and media academic Dr Fincina Hopgood (University of New England), and independent screen culture and audience development specialist Karina Libbey.

Titled A Day at the Movies, this new program of dementia-friendly screenings is being launched during Dementia Action Week. The first screening in the program is Baz Luhrman’s much-loved Australian classic Strictly Ballroom and takes place on Saturday 21 September.

Each of the screenings in this program will take place at the Arc Cinema, National Film and Sound Archive (NFSA).

The screenings adhere to dementia-friendly principles, including matinee timing and low-level house lighting that enables people to move around, slightly lower volume levels, and additional wayfinding and information signage.

Dr Brooks said making these minor adjustments in how the cinema environment is shaped and used can enable people living with dementia to continue to enjoy experiences many take for granted.

“People living with dementia often experience social isolation and discrimination,’ Dr Brooks said.

“While these screenings are open to everyone, they are specifically tailored for the enjoyment of people with dementia. This program enables people living with dementia to continue to enjoy cinema with friends and family and can help foster a more inclusive Australian screen culture.

“Going to the cinema is always about more than just the film itself, and this is also the case for our screenings.

“The program will create meaningful social opportunities for people living with dementia, through morning teas, intervals and the creation of an associated film group.”

There will be three screening events per year, scheduled around key dates in the ACT calendar. The program will include a wide range of films from Australian musicals, like Strictly Ballroom, to Hollywood classics, contemporary rom-coms, and even the occasional cult film. 

There are around 5900 people currently living with dementia in the ACT. This number is expected to rise significantly in future due to an ageing population, highlighting the importance of initiatives that support people with dementia to continue living meaningful and fulfilling lives.

A Day at the Movies is funded by the ACT Government and is proudly supported by the NFSA, Carers ACT and Dementia Australia.