Dementia Action week

Dementia Action Week is a national event where the public take action to improve the lives of people affected by dementia. The week took place on the 15 – 21st May this year, and there were many events throughout the UK.

What is dementia?

Dementia is a term for a number of progressive conditions that can affect the brain.

Symptoms include confusion, problems with speech and understanding and memory loss

Dementia stops a person’s brain cells (neurones) working properly in specific areas, affecting their memory and ability to think and speak.

Dementia can affect people at any age but it’s more common in the over 65’s.

There are over 200 types of dementia. The most common are Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal dementia and mixed dementia.

It’s estimated that over one million people in the UK will have a diagnosis of dementia by 2025 and by then almost all of us will know someone living with the condition.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia in the UK.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease tend to get worse over time. These include:

• difficulty remembering recent events (but often retaining a good memory for past events)
• poor concentration
• muddled or repetitive speech
• difficulty performing everyday tasks
• problems with decision-making
• difficulty recognising people or objects
• poor organisational skills
• confusion and disorientation

There is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but medication is available to help slow its progression.

Some other treatable conditions have similar symptoms, including infections, thyroid problems, circulatory issues, vitamin deficiency, sleep apnoea, stress and depression, and it’s important to rule these out.

Your GP or specialist should be able to provide information about advice and help in your area.

Here is some more information about practical help for people suffering from dementia including using aromatherapy, employment information and making the home safe: https://www.dementiauk.org/get-support/living-with-dementia/