WORLD Alzheimer’s Month aims to raise awareness and challenge the stigma of dementia.
September marks the seventh global campaign during which Warwickshire County Council is calling on residents to take action to improve the lives of people affected.
The theme for this year’s campaign is ‘Every 3 Seconds’ because that is how often people across the globe are diagnosed with the disease.
Dementia is a set of symptoms including memory loss, difficulties with thinking, problem-solving or language. It is caused when the brain is damaged by diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease or a series of strokes. Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia, but not the only one.
To help raise awareness, the county council is urging people to join its Dementia Friends scheme where volunteers befriend those suffering from the disease.
There are currently some 18,500 ‘dementia friends’ in Warwickshire, and the council is aiming to encourage a total of 30,000 by next year.
Health spokesman Coun Les Caborn said: “Warwickshire County Council is also keen to encourage and work with businesses, organisations and individuals to get involved in dementia friends.
“Encouraging community groups or teams to get involved is a positive way to raise awareness of dementia and support this fantastic social action movement.”
Visit www.dementiafriends.org.uk for more details.
