health
Dementia Action Week It is estimated that around 850,000 people in the UK have dementia, a figure predicted to rise to 1.6 million by 2040 (Alzheimer’s Society, November 2019). It’s likely most of us will encounter the condition, either within our close family or wider social circle, so it’s important to be informed. This article is our contribution to Dementia Action Week, which this year falls on 17–23 May. For more information visit www.alzheimers.org.uk.
Facts The word ‘dementia’ describes a set of symptoms that may include memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problem-solving or language. Dementia is caused when the brain is damaged by diseases such as Alzheimer’s or a series of strokes. The specific symptoms experienced by an individual depend on the parts of the brain that are damaged and the disease that is causing the dementia. The signs of dementia often start small but may become severe enough over time to affect daily life, including changes in mood or behaviour.
Myths ✘ Dementia is a natural part of ageing – Although getting older is one of the main risk factors for dementia, not everyone will experience it in later life, and it doesn’t just affect older people. Over 40,000 people under 65 in the UK have early-onset dementia. ✘ Dementia is another name for Alzheimer’s – Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia symptoms, but there are others such as vascular dementia, mixed dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies and frontotemporal dementia. ✘ Dementia is just about memory loss – Memory problems are one set of symptoms that people with dementia may experience. Others include difficulties with planning, thinking things through, struggling to keep up with a conversation, and sometimes changes in mood or behaviour. ✘ A diagnosis of dementia spells the end – Having dementia does not prevent a person from living a fulfilling life for many years. Symptoms may remain stable for sustained periods. An individual’s experience of dementia is affected by factors such as their response to their diagnosis, their surroundings, their physical activity, their diet, their relationships with friends and family, and the treatment and support they receive.
Support Support from health and social care services is of course important to a person with dementia, but it’s not the whole picture. Those affected can live well with the condition if people, organisations and communities come together to help. Dementia Friends – These are individuals willing to learn the basics about dementia and to contribute towards creating a climate of kindness and understanding. Almost three million people in the UK are registered as Dementia Friends. The short information session is delivered either online or in person by a local Dementia Friends Champion. For more information visit www.dementiafriends.org.uk. 14 rg10 May/June 2021. To advertise please call 0118 907 2510 or email nikki@rg10mag.com
