World Alzheimer’s Month
World Alzheimer's Month, September every year, is the annual call to action on Alzheimer's Disease.
Alzheimer’s Disease is the main cause of dementia, accounting for about 60% of cases. It is a progressive condition, impacting memory and thought processes, and presents various challenges to those living with the condition, their families and their carers.
However, with support, people can and do continue living fulfilling and relatively independent lives for a significant period of time.
We are a care agency in Basingstoke providing support at home for people living with dementia across north Hampshire, helping them to remain independent and comfortable in their own homes and providing reassurance to loving families.
Raising Awareness
Every year September is marked globally by Alzheimer’s Disease International as World Alzheimer’s Month, coming to a head with World Alzheimer’s Day on 21st September.
The focus of World Alzheimer’s Month this year is on raising awareness, reducing stigma and promoting early medical evaluation. The theme is “The Earlier You Know, The More You Can Do: A Dementia Diagnosis Matters”.
Dementia is not a normal part of ageing, yet it is impacting more and more of us. Leading organisations in the field, such as the Alzheimer’s Society, remind us that 1 in 3 people born today will develop dementia in their lifetimes. Behind that statistic are the millions of spouses, children and friends supporting their loved ones.
Early diagnosis
Whilst we can all be forgetful occasionally, persistent changes in communication, thinking, memory or normal daily functioning should not be ignored. But unfortunately delays in seeking medical advice are common – due to stigma, denial or simply putting it all down to “old age”. Diagnosis enables people to understand what is happening and access the medical and other support which can slow the progression of the disease.
Slowing the disease down can unlock a higher quality of life, whilst providing more time for individuals and their families to educate themselves about what lies ahead and plan for future care, financial and legal arrangements. There is a clear benefit in starting relevant therapies early, and many therapies work best in the early stages of the disease. So, the earlier the diagnosis the better.
Tackling the stigma
World Alzheimer’s Day is intended to encourage people to talk more openly and normalise the conversation about memory loss, confusion and cognitive change. This is to help tackle the stigma and make it easier for a grandparent, parent or partner to recognise a need for a medical assessment and navigate the path ahead with dignity.
Dementia care
Good dementia care at home requires an understanding of the person – their life story, preferences, relationships and routines. It involves supporting the individual in a way that respects their dignity, overall wellbeing and independence. Good care is personalised, understanding and compassionate.
For more background information, personal accounts of the dementia experience and practical advice for families, why not visit our YouTube channel Home Truths.
To discuss care for your loved one, whether it’s respite care so you can take a weekly break, companionship, help with personal care or live-in care, please:
phone us on 01256 840 660 or
go to Home Care in Basingstoke or
click on the enquiry button below.