Dementia
Friends
Dementia is the name given to a group of symptoms which occur
when the brain is damaged by a disease. These symptoms are
progressive, affect many aspects of daily life and can be the result
of many different diseases - the most common being Alzheimer’s
Disease. It is estimated that over 850,000 living in the UK are
currently affected by Dementia and 40,000 of those under the
age of 65.
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Back in May 2016 the Alzheimer
Society ran a hugely successful
‘Dementia Awareness Week’ campaign
which sought to reach people who
were concerned about Dementia and
encourage them to seek help, support
and information from the charity. In
addition the Society runs a scheme
called ‘Dementia Friends’ which
educates people about Dementia and
how to support those affected by the
disease and their families. ‘Friends’
and ‘Champions’ within the scheme are
encouraged to turn their understanding
into action and assist and educate
people in their local communities.
Mayo Wynne Baxter has several
seasoned ‘Dementia Friends’ within the
firm and, as one of them, I went along
to a Dementia Friends session in July
hosted in Lewes. People attending
these free information sessions range