Working together to create a dementia-friendly society
During this Dementia Action Week (21-27 May 2018), NHS South Cheshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and NHS Vale Royal CCG are backing a campaign to improve the lives of people with the condition.
Dementia has a number of symptoms, which are a result of damage to the brain. In the UK, one person develops dementia every three minutes, experiencing a variety of symptoms including memory loss, difficulty finding the correct words, changes in personality and depression.
Although we may think of dementia being a condition which affects those aged over 65, is does also develop in people who are much younger. Although there is no cure, there are several different treatments available to help ease symptoms.
Dr Teresa Strefford, GP and Clinical Director for Commissioning at the CCGs, said: “If you’re worried about your memory, don’t just blame it on ‘getting old’, memory loss is not an inevitable part of ageing.
“So, if you are being more forgetful, it’s well worth talking to your doctor, even if it is just to reassure you that you don’t have dementia.
“But if you do, with many conditions the earlier it can be diagnosed, the earlier GPs can help you get the right treatment and support in place in good time.
“It’s a condition for which there is no cure, but we can help you manage the symptoms and support you and your family to plan for the future
“In South Cheshire and Vale Royal we are seeing diagnosis rates improving, and we also have dedicated dementia support workers who help not only with the medical stuff but with changes to their everyday lives.”
The Alzheimer’s Society’s focus this year is to encourage everyone to take action – no matter how small – to create a dementia-friendly UK. Yet, too many people living with dementia face the condition alone and feel excluded from society.
Dr Strefford added: “We also need to think about the family and friends of someone with dementia, as well as treatment for the person with the condition, there is more and more support for those caring for them.
“So, if you’re a carer of someone with dementia, talk to your doctor or look at the support available from your local authority.”
Meanwhile, events will be taking place across England, Wales and Northern Ireland during Dementia Action Week. Find an event near you at https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-involved/dementia-action-week-events
To see the help available from your local authority, visit their website:
Cheshire West and Chester Council – https://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/residents/health-and-social-care/health-and-wellbeing/dementia.aspx
For more information on dementia including how to get support visit the Alzheimer’s Society website: www.alzheimers.org.uk
You can also visit NHS Choices: www.nhs.uk/conditions/dementia – or call The National Dementia Helpline which offers one-to-one advice and support on 0300 222 11 22