Hidden Disabilities Sunflower - Canada

09/21/2025

World Alzheimer’s Day

Making the invisible visible.

55 million people globally live with dementia, estimated to rise to 139 million by 2050.

Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia, but it certainly isn't the only one. There are hundreds, including Alzheimer's, Vascular, Mixed Dementia, Dementia with Lewy Bodies, Frontotemporal dementia and Early Onset Dementia.

Dementia is a group of symptoms caused by diseases that damage the brain and are progressive.

How a person experiences dementia can differ because we are all individuals, so it is essential to treat everyone as such. By learning more about dementia as a society, we can support people to live well and be better equipped to support and help their caregivers and loved ones.

- More time, more patience, more understanding

Nostalgic activities evoke memories and connections for people living with dementia, such as listening to and playing music, watching films, and TV programmes.



There is a great deal to learn about dementia. Discover more by visiting our website:

- Invisible disabilities index, https://bit.ly/47KNJZV

- The Sunflower Conversations podcast, https://bit.ly/373paXZ

- Sunflower cards: I have Alzheimer’s Disease, I care and support someone with Alzheimer’s, and I have dementia and I care and support someone with dementia, https://bit.ly/4pvYcPf



We are proud to work with Alzheimer's Society to bring greater awareness.

For support contact Alzheimer Society of Canada

09/18/2025

Inclusion starts with you. Here’s how we can all make the world a kinder place:

1. Patience. Give people extra time and space
2. Kindness. A smile or supportive words can make all the difference
3. No assumptions, everyone’s experience is unique

Little gestures. Big difference.

https://bit.ly/3JVe0b7

09/11/2025

See the Sunflower? Here’s how to show support.

1. Be patient, the person may need extra time
2. Offer help, but don’t assume, just simply ask "How how can I help you".
3. Be kind, small acts of understanding mean so much
4. Never ask them why they are wearing the Sunflower

Together, we can make the world more welcoming for people with non-visible disabilities.

https://bit.ly/3JVe0b7

09/04/2025

Wear it your way. The Sunflower comes in many forms.
It’s not just a lanyard, it can be a wristband, pin badge or card, each helping you feel confident and supported when you’re out and about.

See which Sunflower item is right for you: https://bit.ly/3JVe0b7

08/28/2025

Do you know our Sunflower story?

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower was chosen because the sunflower is a universally recognised and cheerful symbol that suggests happiness, positivity, strength, growth, and confidence.

It’s discreet yet visible, its bright yellow colour and distinctive shape make it easy to spot from a distance, helping wearers feel recognised without needing to explain their disability out loud.

- Discreet yet visible: subtle, but clear enough to show you may need extra support
- Positive and uplifting: sunflowers spread warmth and understanding
- Universally recognised: a sunflower means something good, wherever you are in the world

Without a clear, visual sign, it can be hard to understand the daily barriers faced by people with a non-visible disability. The Sunflower helps bridge that gap, with just one small symbol.

Learn more at: https://bit.ly/3JVe0b7

08/21/2025

Who is the Sunflower for? Maybe someone you know, maybe you.

Anyone with a non-visible disability can choose to wear the Sunflower. 🌻

Anyone who wants to be seen and supported.

From people who may need urgent toilet access, to those who can’t stand for long periods, to someone who may need more time in busy places, the Sunflower is for them.

It’s a simple way to say: “I may need a little more time, support and understanding today.”

https://bit.ly/3JVe0b7

08/14/2025

Not all disabilities are visible.

Globally, 1 in 6 people (that’s over 1.3 billion) live with a disability, and up to 80% of those have a non-visible disability, meaning it's not immediately apparent to you. This includes conditions like chronic pain, autism, anxiety, ADHD, diabetes, Crohn’s, and more.

Want to learn more?

Click the link to view our index of non-visible disabilities and discover how the Sunflower helps people feel seen and supported.

08/07/2025

“What’s that lanyard for?” Here’s your answer:

When someone wears a Sunflower lanyard, it’s a quiet signal that they have a non-visible disability, one that is not immediately apparent to others.

It means they may need more time, more patience, or a little extra help, and wearing the Sunflower helps them feel confident they’ll be met with understanding.

Seen it before? Now you know. Pass it on.

07/31/2025

Not all disabilities are visible.

The Sunflower is a simple way for people with non-visible disabilities to discreetly share that they may need a little extra time, understanding or support in public spaces.

You might see someone wearing a Sunflower lanyard, badge or bracelet, now you know what it means.

Let’s help more people recognise the Sunflower.

06/02/2025

🌻 Join Our Sunflower Quarterly Meeting - June 4, 2025 🌻

Calling all Canadian Sunflower Members and companies interested in finding out more about the Sunflower program to support individuals with non-visible disabilities! Don't miss out on the next Sunflower Quarterly Meeting on June 4, 2025.

Here’s what’s in store:

✔ Sunflower update - Get the latest on the Sunflower’s expansion in Canada, new members, and global milestones from Regional Director – Canada, Clare Kumar

✔ Sunflower Member highlight - Hear from Sarah Moore of the Town of Ajax about how they brought the Sunflower program to life in their municipality

✔ Q&A - Have your questions answered and connect with Sunflower Members

Date: Wednesday, June 4, 2025

Time: 11 am Pacific | 2 pm Eastern | 3:30 pm Newfoundland

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, share, and collaborate as we continue to build a more inclusive world, one step at a time.

👉 RSVP now and secure your spot: https://bit.ly/3FiPDFn

Clare Kumar Productivity Catalyst

05/01/2025

We are thrilled to share that Durham Region Transit (DRT) has officially launched the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower - Canada to make their transit more accessible for people with non-visible disabilities and conditions 😊🌻👏

🌻 Yesterday, we officially launched the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program at Durham Region Transit! This program is all about recognition, respect and support—helping riders with hidden disabilities travel with confidence. For more information about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, visit: https://bit.ly/3RJiJAf

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower - Canada