Dementia Awareness

Do you suddenly find keeping track of your money impossible or forget where you are in
familiar places? Maybe you’ve been a great cook all your life and now find it hard to follow a
basic recipe in order?
It’s always best to check with the doctor rather than worrying alone. There are many
conditions with similar symptoms and the GP will carry out checks that may rule out
dementia.

What is dementia and what are the signs?

People often ask what’s the difference between dementia and Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s is a
type of dementia- There are over 200 types of disease that fall into the category dementia-
All affect the brain and are progressive.
Signs dependent on the person and the type of dementia

  • a sudden or marked change
  • changes that affect your day-to -day living
  • Dementia often affects planning, organisation, as well as visual perception, coordination,
    and understanding and use of language.
  • Dementia may also cause changes to mood, personality, and may cause mental ill health
    such as anxiety or depression.

What can we do about dementia anyway? Reducing Risk

  • Lancet commission found up to 45% of dementia may be preventable by addressing
    modifiable risk factors- including a healthy, low-fat, low-salt diet, exercising regularly,
    and looking after wellbeing to reduce stress.
  • Making sure depression is treated and hearing impairments are addressed through
    hearing aids and other technology, can also help reduce risk.
  • The dementia statements claim everyone has a right to an early and accurate
    diagnosis. This also allows people to plan ahead and takes pressure off family
    members and caregivers.

Dementia Action Week 2025

Dementia Action Week 2025 will be held from May 19 to May 25, 2025. This week-long event, organized by the Alzheimer’s Society, aims to raise awareness about dementia, encourage action to support people living with it, and highlight the importance of early diagnosis. The focus for 2025 is on diagnosis and the prioritization of dementia in policy and decision-making.

Become a Dementia Friend

Become a Dementia Friend to learn more about dementia and the small ways you and your organisation can get involved.

Click here form more information https://www.dementiafriends.org.uk/