Keith Oliver

Keith is Dementia Service User Envoy for Kent and Medway Partnership Trust and has fulfilled many other roles raising awareness of the needs of people with dementia since he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s at the age of 55 and retired from his role as primary school head teacher in Canterbury.  He has resolutely refused to be self-pitying and instead has channelled his considerable skills into speaking eloquently on behalf of people with dementia.

Because of his background in education, Keith has a wonderful way with words and can capture an audience.

Although Keith appears calm and confident when he speaks, I know it takes him far longer to gather his thoughts and write presentations than it would have done before he had dementia.  It can also be arduous travelling to speak at events and meeting new people – it would be easier to focus on his many interests and hobbies, but he feels compelled to be a voice for people with dementia.

Keith inspires and motivates other people with dementia, including the Forget Me Nots group at KMPT.  He is a role model and others have found their voice through following his example.