Why you should become a Dementia Friend

Ashtons Legal’s medical negligence team have recently become Dementia Friends after undergoing the fantastic training programme created by Alzheimer’s Society.

The Dementia Friends initiative was launched by Alzheimer’s Society in order to try and change the way that our society perceives those with dementia.

Many of us presume that dementia is something that only affects the elderly, however this is not always the case. Although far less common, young-onset dementia (dementia in those under 65) affects around 42,000 people in the UK.

With around 850,000 people living with dementia in the UK, it is important that as a society we understand the implications of dementia and know the ways in which we can help those suffering.

Dementia is not a normal part of ageing

It is normal to get a little forgetful as you get older, however dementia is much more than this. Dementia can affect people of all ages and may cause mood changes, disorientation and difficulties carrying out familiar tasks.

There are many different types of dementia

There are many different types of dementia, however they all are diseases of the brain. Some forms of dementia – such as Alzheimer’s disease – are caused by nerve cells dying which can change the structure of the brain. Meanwhile other types of dementia are caused as a result of limited blood supply to the brain.

Dementia is not just about memory loss

Many people with dementia do struggle to remember things sometimes, however this is just one of the symptoms that someone with dementia may display. Other symptoms include: having trouble carrying out routine tasks such as counting money, having trouble judging distances despite having good eyesight or experiencing mood changes and difficulties controlling emotions.

Become a Dementia Friend

Becoming a Dementia Friend is quick, free and can help to diminish the many misconceptions that surround the condition. The training will help you to understand:

• how dementia actually impacts the day-to-day lives of those living with the condition
• the best way of interacting with those with dementia
• the importance of helping those with dementia to stay active
• how we can help to reduce the stigma around dementia
• how we can combat the misconceptions around dementia.

Click here if you would like to become a Dementia Friend.