One person develops dementia every three minutes, yet too many face it alone. That's the message from Alzheimer's Society, and this week they're calling on everyone to take action to improve the everyday lives of people affected by dementia as part of Dementia Action Week.
There's a new name and a new focus for the Alzheimer's Society's annual awareness campaign, which kicked off yesterday and will run until May 27. Previously called Dementia Awareness Week, this year it has been renamed Dementia Action Week, and the charity is calling on everyone to unite and take actions, big or small, to improve the everyday lives of people affected by dementia.
Debbie Foster, Alzheimer's Society operations Manager for Norfolk and Suffolk, says: 'There are more than 14,000 people in Norfolk and 11,700 in Suffolk living with dementia, yet too many people face the condition alone, without adequate support.
'Alzheimer's Society is determined to change this and everyone has a part to play in creating a dementia-friendly UK. From continuing to invite people with dementia out, to making sure you listen and include them in conversations, people with dementia and carers have shared actions with us that will make a difference – helping them to feel included in their communities and able to live the lives they want.'
Other actions include not being afraid to talk to people with dementia - they are the same person. Ask questions about their dementia, taking the time to learn more about the condition and offering support to carers, family and friends.
Alzheimer's Society offers a range of services to support people with dementia – including its National Dementia Helpline, Talking Point forum and Dementia Adviser service.
'There are 63 people registered as volunteers across Norfolk and Suffolk helping to fundraise, support activity groups or join our Side by Side service and pair with a person living with dementia who shares common interests to help maintain independence and social activities,' says Debbie.
'Registering to become a volunteer is a simple action that can make a big impact to support people affected by dementia.'
To find out more about volunteering opportunities available across Norfolk and Suffolk, email anne.cauvin@alzheimers.org.uk
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