To mark Dementia Action Week, a dementia group will be launching an initiative to help others learn what it's like to live with dementia.
Carlisle Dementia Action Alliance has arranged a series of public Dementia Friends awareness sessions, which hopes to turn awareness into the mental health disease into action.
The Alzheimer’s Society is using this year’s Dementia Action Week to encourage those who might be living with, or close to someone who might be living with undiagnosed dementia to be able to understand and recognise potential dementia symptoms as well as improve the diagnosis process for both them and healthcare professionals.
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Kevin Walsh, chairman of the Dementia Action Alliance, said: "Of course, not everyone who is living with Dementia feels that they want a formal diagnosis, it can be a scary issue to discuss and come to terms with. Our Action Alliance works alongside organisations such as the Alzheimer’s Society to support those living with Dementia, their families, and carers both pre and post diagnosis. We already have drop-in information sessions monthly in Longtown & Brampton and are looking at how we can extend these to other parts of the Carlisle area.
"If anyone has concerns about a loved one or are coming to terms with a diagnosis, they are welcome to pop along for tea, cake, and a chat. Our next session is at Longtown Community Centre on the 17th May, 1330 to 1430.
"We know that in the coming years many more people will be diagnosed with Dementia. Alliance members are keen to make sure that organisations and individuals are as prepared as they can be. By taking steps now we can ensure that Carlisle is as dementia friendly as possible for those who wish to work, live, and play in the area," he said.
The Dementia Friends Awareness sessions are being held in Longtown at 3pm on May 17 and in the Assembly Rooms in the Old Town Hall Carlisle at 2.15pm and 3.30pm on May 20.
To book a place on any of these sessions please contact Rachel Peckford, Email: Rachael.Peckford@carlsile.gov.uk
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