Shining a Light on Dementia This September
Home Instead North Devon marks World Alzheimer’s Month 2025 by asking: Are we talking enough?
Are We Talking About Dementia Enough? Why North Devon’s Voice Matters This World Alzheimer’s Month
Every September, millions come together to share stories, challenge stigma, and spark conversations that might otherwise go unspoken. At Home Instead North Devon, we’re proud to be part of this movement, because for us, dementia care isn’t just professional, it’s deeply personal.
As World Alzheimer’s Month 2025 approaches, we’re asking a simple but powerful question: Are we talking about dementia enough? And if not, how can we start?
Raising Awareness from the Heart of North Devon
World Alzheimer’s Month runs from 1st to 30th September each year and is led globally by Alzheimer’s Disease International. It’s more than a calendar event, it’s a chance for families, care teams, communities and organisations to speak up, support each other, and make real progress in how we understand and respond to Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
At Home Instead North Devon, we work daily with individuals and families navigating these challenges. This month gives us the opportunity to highlight what compassionate care looks like, open up honest conversations, and celebrate the moments that still matter, because they do, even in the midst of memory loss.
We’ll be marking the month with staff stories and educational outreach across Barnstaple, Bideford, South Molton and the surrounding areas. Keep an eye on our website and social media, because some of the most powerful voices are those closest to home.
What Is Alzheimer’s Disease, and Why It’s Time to Talk
Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, a group of conditions that cause memory decline, cognitive changes and altered behaviour. It’s not simply a normal part of ageing; it’s a progressive neurological disease that affects over 850,000 people in the UK.
Symptoms may start subtly:
- Forgetting recent conversations or appointments
- Getting confused in familiar places
- Struggling to follow stories or instructions
- Changes in mood or frustration during daily tasks
- Difficulty handling money or medication
Over time, symptoms often become more severe, affecting movement, speech, and emotional wellbeing. In later stages, changes in perception, including seeing or sensing things that aren’t there, can also emerge. New research also suggests that a reduced sense of smell may be an early indicator, long before memory issues appear.
What’s often overlooked, however, is that with early intervention and the right support, people living with dementia can maintain independence, dignity, and comfort for longer than many realise.
Why World Alzheimer’s Month Matters
Despite being the UK’s leading cause of death, dementia is still too often ignored in national policy and healthcare planning. It’s been called the “UK’s forgotten crisis,” and for good reason: thousands of families are affected, yet many feel unsupported.
World Alzheimer’s Month aims to change that by:
- Encouraging early diagnosis and open conversation
- Raising public awareness of signs and symptoms
- Providing information on support services
- Highlighting the experiences of those living with the condition
- Campaigning for better funding, training and care resources
This year’s global theme focuses on rehabilitation and independence, how therapies, activities, and day-to-day support can help those with dementia stay involved in their communities and decision-making.
What You Can Do to Help in North Devon
World Alzheimer’s Month is about community. Whether you’ve experienced dementia personally or simply want to help, here are some ways you can get involved this September:
1. Share Your Story
Real stories break down stigma. Whether you’re a carer, family member or living with dementia yourself, speaking up helps others feel less alone.
2. Start the Conversation
Use social media hashtags like #AskAboutDementia or #WorldAlzheimersMonth to join the global dialogue. Sometimes, a simple question opens the door to understanding.
3. Support Local Fundraising
Even small donations can help charities continue their vital work in research, support and public education.
4. Learn the Early Signs
Education matters. Schools, community centres, and workplaces can use bulletin boards, assemblies or newsletters to share dementia facts.
5. Speak to Your MP and local councillors
Policy change is vital. Support campaigns for better funding and faster diagnoses by writing to your local representatives or signing a petition.
- Attend the Dementia Alliance AGM
This takes place at Barnstaple Library at 12pm on Tuesday 9th September.
Who Supports the Campaign?
World Alzheimer’s Month is driven by:
- Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI) – the global umbrella for dementia organisations
- Alzheimer’s Society UK – the leading national charity supporting people affected by dementia
- Corporate supporters – such as EDF Energy, who partner with charities to raise awareness and offer internal support
Together, these groups are pushing for early diagnoses, improved care systems, and better support for carers.
Looking Ahead: Why It All Matters
There are currently over 55 million people living with dementia worldwide. That number is expected to reach 139 million by 2050. The challenge ahead is not only medical, it is social, economic and deeply personal.
This year’s World Alzheimer’s Month reminds us:
- Early action matters
- Listening matters
- Stories matter
- Local support matters
By learning more and showing care in our day-to-day interactions, we can improve quality of life for those affected right here in North Devon.
Final Thoughts from the Home Instead North Devon Team
At Home Instead North Devon, we believe that dignity, compassion and familiarity should be at the heart of every care experience. This month, and every month, we stand alongside families facing Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
If you’d like to share your experience, participate in a local event, or learn how we’re marking World Alzheimer’s Month this year, please do get in touch. Whether you’re a client, carer, family member or friend, your voice helps shape a kinder, more informed future.
Let’s keep the conversation going.
Useful Resources
- Alzheimer’s Society UK
- Alzheimer’s Disease International
- Dementia Friends
- Dementia Support Line: 0333 150 3456
Key Dates
- World Alzheimer’s Month: 1–30 September 2025
- World Alzheimer’s Day: 21 September 2025
Areas We Serve
South Molton, Barnstaple, & the surrounding North Devon areas
EX31 1, EX31 2, EX31 3, EX31 4, EX32 0, EX32 7, EX32 8, EX32 9, EX33 1, EX33 2, EX34 0, EX34 7, EX34 8, EX34 9, EX35 6, EX36 3, EX36 4, EX37 9, EX39 1, EX39 2, EX39 3, EX39 4, TA22 9, TA24 7, TA24 8
Unit 1c, Lime Field, South Molton EX36 3BS, UK