Spot the Signs: Supporting Alzheimer’s Awareness in Ilkley, Skipton and Settle

September is World Alzheimer’s Awareness Month — and here at Home Instead Ilkley, Skipton and Settle, it's more than just a date in the calendar.

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September is World Alzheimer’s Awareness Month — and here at Home Instead Ilkley, Skipton and Settle, it’s more than just a date in the calendar.

It’s a time to shine a light on the reality of living with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia — and to empower our community with the knowledge, tools, and compassion needed to support those affected.

Whether you’re a family member, a neighbour, a Care Professional or just someone who wants to better understand, this month is an opportunity to get involved and make a meaningful difference.

World Alzheimer’s Awareness Month is marked globally each September to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and challenge the stigma that still surrounds dementia-related conditions. It’s also a chance to promote early detection, encourage inclusive communities, and highlight the resources available to support families and individuals affected by the disease.

Elderly person smiling outdoors with the text, "Ask about dementia. Ask about Alzheimer’s." World Alzheimer's Month. - Home Instead

Dementia vs Alzheimer’s: What’s the Difference?

Although the terms are often used interchangeably, dementia and Alzheimer’s aren’t quite the same thing.

  • Dementia is an umbrella term for a group of conditions that affect the brain — causing memory loss, confusion, and changes in behaviour and thinking.
  • Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, accounting for around 60–70% of cases. It’s a progressive disease that impacts memory and cognitive function over time.

Understanding the distinction helps families better navigate a diagnosis, find the right support, and plan for the future.

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What’s Happening in Ilkley?

At Home Instead Ilkley, we’re committed to not only supporting clients living with Alzheimer’s or dementia — but also building a more dementia-aware community around them. That means:

Ongoing training for our Care Professionals, ensuring they’re equipped to spot early signs, respond compassionately, and adapt care as needs change – please read our ‘Spot the Signs’ blog to find out more.

Family resources and guidance, including our Spot the Signs checklist (see below) to help loved ones identify early warning signs at home.

Local partnerships to raise awareness beyond the care setting — including schools, GP practices and local groups.

✅ And coming soon… the return of the Virtual Dementia Experience.

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The Virtual Dementia Experience is Coming Back to Ilkley

Last year, we hosted the Virtual Dementia Experience, a unique mobile simulator (on a bus!) that allows participants to experience some of the physical and sensory challenges of living with dementia.

And it’s coming back.

This powerful, hands-on training helps build real empathy and understanding — whether you’re a Care Professional, a family carer, or simply someone who wants to understand what dementia feels like from the inside out.

It’s part of our wider mission to build a dementia-friendly Ilkley, where more people can recognise the signs, offer support, and help others feel included and respected — no matter where they are in their journey.

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Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

Early identification makes a world of difference. That’s why we’ve created a helpful Spot the Signs checklist — a simple, practical guide for families who may be noticing changes in a loved one but aren’t sure what it means.
Alzheimer’s Awareness Month is about more than awareness — it’s about action. Whether it’s learning more about the symptoms, reaching out to someone affected, or taking part in community events like the Virtual Dementia Experience, we can all do something to help.
Together, we can build a future where those living with dementia feel seen, understood and supported — starting right here in Ilkley.
Simply fill in the form on the right to get your copy today.