World Alzheimer’s Month: Start the Conversation
Could Asking One Question Change Everything? Let’s Talk About Dementia This September
World Alzheimer’s Month 2025 is just around the corner, and here at Home Instead Yeovil, Sherborne & Bridport, we’re preparing to raise awareness, encourage conversation, and stand alongside families affected by dementia throughout our communities. But this year, the global campaign invites all of us to do something simple, yet powerful.
Ask.
Ask about memory.
Ask about changes.
Ask about dementia.
Because sometimes, asking one question is all it takes to start the support someone has been waiting for.
What Is World Alzheimer’s Month?
From 1st to 30th September, World Alzheimer’s Month brings the international community together to raise understanding and support around Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. It’s organised by Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI) and is now in its 14th year. The highlight of the month falls on 21st September, World Alzheimer’s Day, a date marked by memory walks, fundraising efforts, and real-life conversations.
This year’s theme is #AskAboutDementia. It’s a reminder that while silence surrounds many dementia journeys, questions can lead to clarity, compassion, and action.
Why It Matters, Even Here in Yeovil, Sherborne & Bridport
At Home Instead Yeovil, Sherborne & Bridport, we’ve seen the impact of dementia on local families. We know that behind closed doors, countless people are adjusting to new routines, seeking support, and carrying out day-to-day care with quiet determination. Many do so without knowing where to turn for help.
Dementia is now the leading cause of death in the UK, highlighting just how vital it is to increase awareness and support. But thanks to growing initiatives like World Alzheimer’s Month and the dedication of organisations such as Home Instead, more families are finding the information, guidance, and care they need. While memory loss is often recognised, fewer people are aware that dementia can influence how people communicate, perceive their environment, and engage emotionally or cognitively. It’s not simply a part of getting older. It’s a medical condition, and one that affects over 55 million people worldwide.
What’s Different in 2025? The Power of a Question
The campaign message this year is simple and universal: #AskAboutDementia. By asking questions, openly, compassionately, without fear, we create opportunities to:
- Understand the signs of early dementia
- Connect families with practical help
- Combat stigma in our communities
- Support individuals in feeling seen and heard
These questions matter. They can encourage someone to speak to their GP, open up about their worries, or reach out to a support group. And they can change lives.
How We're Getting Involved Locally
At Home Instead Yeovil, Sherborne & Bridport, we’re inviting everyone in our office and across our communities to join in this September. Here’s how we’re taking part, and how you can, too:
How You Can Get Involved in Yeovil, Sherborne or Bridport
Attend or Organise an Event
Look out for memory walks, community talks, or dementia-friendly coffee mornings in your local area. If you’re a group organiser, think about dedicating a session to dementia education this September.
Share Your Story
Have you been affected by dementia? Whether you’re a carer, neighbour or friend, your experience could help someone feel less alone. Share it on social media, or with us directly, we’d love to help tell local stories with care and dignity.
Use the Campaign Hashtags
Get the conversation started online using:
- #AskAboutDementia
- #WorldAlzheimersMonth
- #SupportAlz
- #DementiaAwareness
ADI has toolkits, posters, and graphics ready to download from www.alzint.org.
Donate or Volunteer
Support local groups or national charities like The Alzheimer’s Society, Dementia UK, or smaller grassroots networks. Every donation helps maintain helplines, fund research, and provide local support. Volunteering your time, whether it’s helping with a walk or lending a listening ear, also makes a difference.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis
At Home Instead, we strongly encourage families to look out for the early signs of dementia, and it’s important not to overlook changes in behaviour or memory as simply part of getting older. Common signs include:
- Confusion about time or place
- Difficulty planning or solving problems
- Withdrawal from hobbies or conversations
- Changes in mood or personality
Getting a diagnosis earlier gives people more time to plan, explore care options, and access treatments or therapies that may help manage symptoms. It also allows families to better understand how to provide safe, respectful support at home.
Local Support Matters
We’re proud to be part of a community that cares. Here’s where you can find help close to home:
- Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Support Line: 0333 150 3456
- Somerset Dementia Wellbeing Service- www.somersetdementia.org
- Dementia Directory: www.alzheimers.org.uk
- ADI Resources and Downloads: www.alzint.org
Home Instead Yeovil, Sherborne & Bridport: Contact us on 01935 577030 for home care support, advice, or a no-pressure chat about your options.
Looking Beyond September
World Alzheimer’s Month is more than a once-a-year event, it’s a reminder that dementia support must be continuous and community-wide.
Here at Home Instead Yeovil, Sherborne & Bridport, we’re committed to making dementia care more accessible, more respectful, and more person-centred every single day. Whether it’s through our dementia training for Care Professionals, our work with local GPs and memory clinics, or simply offering a smile and a cuppa, we are here.
Let’s keep talking. Let’s keep listening. Let’s keep asking.
A Final Thought
Not sure how to start the conversation?
Here are a few simple ways to begin:
- “Have you noticed any changes in how you’re feeling lately?”
- “Would it help to talk to someone about your memory?”
- “There’s a lot of support available, shall we look together?”
Whether you’re a friend, family member, neighbour or colleague, your words matter.
Let’s make September a month of understanding, compassion, and community here in Yeovil, Sherborne and Bridport. Together, we can help keep dementia out of the shadows.
Areas We Serve
Yeovil, Bridport, Sherborne, Crewkerne, Weston, Martock, Somerton, Langport, Eastfield, Castle Cary, Bruton, South Petherton, Beaminster, Milborne Port and surrounding areas.
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Office Address: Somerset Yeovil Innovation Centre, Barracks Close,
Copse Road, Yeovil,
Somerset – BA22 8RN
Phone: 01935 577030