NHS in Coventry and Warwickshire challenging stigma around dementia - The Solihull Observer

NHS in Coventry and Warwickshire challenging stigma around dementia

Solihull Editorial 9th Sep, 2020   0

NHS organisations across Coventry and Warwickshire are highlighting the symptoms of and challenging the stigma around Alzheimer’s and dementia, in support of World Alzheimer’s Month.

Alzheimer’s Awareness Month aims to dispel misconceptions and stigma about dementia, which affects over 50million people worldwide, by encouraging people to talk about their experiences and promote facts about the condition.

Dr Sarah Raistrick, Chair at NHS Coventry and Rugby Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “Lifestyle, family history and age can increase the risk of Alzheimer’s.

“If you have any concerns, please contact your GP for advice. Getting an accurate and early diagnosis can help you prepare for the future and help manage symptoms.”




Dr David Spraggett, Chair at NHS South Warwickshire CCG, said: “An estimated one in six people over the age of 80 have dementia, so we want to encourage everyone to look out for symptoms in their friends and families.

“It can be easy to dismiss memory problems as just being a part of getting older and it can be difficult to recognise the early signs.”


Dr Imogen Staveley, Deputy Chair at NHS Warwickshire North CCG said: “Dementia will likely affect everyone at some point in their lives because they will know of someone who has been diagnosed with the condition.

“We encourage everyone to challenge the misconceptions around Alzheimer’s. Now is the time to start an open conversation to combat stigma and raise awareness.”

The symptoms of Alzheimer’s can include memory loss, speech difficulties, difficulty performing routine tasks, mood and personality changes, hallucinations and delusions.

Call your GP or the NHS on 111 if you think you or a loved one may be experiencing dementia symptoms.

Visit www.nhs.uk/conditions/alzheimers-disease or call the Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Connect support line on 0333 150 3456 for more information and support.

The following local organisations also provide information and support:

Alzheimer’s Society Warwickshire Services – https://tinyurl.com/y25fvy6k

Alzheimer’s Society Coventry Services – https://tinyurl.com/yykzse3s and https://tinyurl.com/yygcukt4

Living well with Dementia – https://dementia.warwickshire.gov.uk

Age UK Coventry and Warwickshire – https://tinyurl.com/y4deh2ux

Public Notices

View and download all of the public notices in the Solihull Observer.

Recruitment

Find a career you'll love with our free career finder website.

Business Directory

From plumbers, to restaurants, we can provide you with all the info you need.

Buy Photos

Buy photos online from the Solihull Observer newspaper.