Dementia Awareness Week 2015: ‘Do something new’

‘Do something new’ and open up about memory problems is the message from health and social care professionals during Dementia Awareness Week 2015 (17-24 May).

The Public Health Agency (PHA) and Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) are working jointly with the Alzheimer’s Society, Dementia NI and local Health and Social Care Trusts to promote a culture which ensures people with dementia are supported to live with dignity and without stigma. To enable this, everyone needs to talk openly with those closest to them about dementia; you could even pledge to become a ‘Dementia Friend’.

Eleanor Ross, Nurse Consultant with the PHA, said: “Dementia can happen to anyone and sadly there is no cure. People with dementia may feel isolated and alone. People can also find it difficult to talk about it when they think that they, or someone close to them, may have dementia.

“We believe that life doesn't end when dementia begins, and would encourage people to open up about worries they might have about their memory and to seek help as soon as possible.

“By talking openly about dementia and its impact on daily life, people with dementia, family members and carers can begin to access the practical help and support available. Timely diagnosis allows people to receive treatment and care to enable them to live independent and fulfilling lives. Early diagnosis and support also enable people to plan for the future and to make their own decisions about their care.”

Seamus McErlean, Commissioning Lead for Older People and Adult Services at the HSCB, said: “Often people are reluctant to seek help with memory problems as they feel that nothing can be done. However, recent investments in dementia services are making improvements to the care and support that people with dementia and their carers can expect to receive.

“Through the Delivering Social Change Programme for Dementia, the HSCB and PHA in collaboration with other organisations, carers and people living with dementia are working to do something different that will promote greater public awareness, develop opportunities for training and provide a range of person centred services. These developments will include the deployment of 10 Dementia Navigators across the HSC Trusts and the introduction of 300 Dementia Champions across Northern Ireland.  It is vital therefore that we encourage people to open up and have the confidence to ask for help.” 

If you, or a member of your family, have concerns about Alzheimer's disease or about any other form of dementia, the Alzheimer's Society Dementia Helpline on 0300 222 1122 can provide information, support, guidance and signposting to other appropriate organisations.