Help those with dementia lead better lives, this Dementia Action Week
One in three of us born in the UK today will go on to develop dementia in our lifetime, and there will be one million people living with dementia by 2025, making dementia care one of the greatest challenges facing our society.
According to Alzheimer’s Research UK, there are around 820,000 people living with dementia in the UK. The majority are older people, but it is possible for younger people to have dementia, and dementia that is diagnosed before the age of 65 are known as 'early-onset'.
What is dementia?
The word ‘dementia’ describes a set of symptoms that may include memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problem-solving or language.
Dementia is caused by diseases which damage brain cells and interfere with the normal workings of the brain.
Everyone will experience dementia differently, depending on the cause, on which parts of the brain are affected, and their own personality and circumstances.
What types of dementia are there?
- Alzheimer’s disease. This is the most common type of dementia. Alzheimer’s is a progressive condition which means that symptoms get worse over time. The first signs are usually minor memory problems which can later lead to confusion and disorientation, problems with speech and language, personality changes such as becoming more aggressive or suspicious, delusions, and anxiety.
- Vascular dementia. Another common type of dementia, caused by reduced blood flow to the brain. Symptoms, which can start suddenly or build over time, include slowness of thought and problems with concentration, and difficulty walking and keeping balance.
- Frontotemporal dementia. A less common type of dementia that causes problems with behaviour and language. While dementia mostly affects people over 65, this form of dementia tends to start at a younger age, with most cases diagnosed in people aged 45-65.
- Dementia with Lewy bodies. This rare form of dementia involves tiny abnormal structures (Lewy bodies) forming inside brain cells, which disrupt the chemistry of the brain. People may experience hallucinations, confusion or sleepiness, slow movement and tremors, fainting and falls, and problems with understanding, memory and judgement.
- Mixed dementia. This is when someone has more than one type of dementia, and so will have a mixture of the symptoms. Many people with vascular dementia also have Alzheimer’s disease.
Getting a diagnosis
Although there is currently no cure for dementia, an early diagnosis can mean its progress can be slowed down.
A diagnosis helps people with dementia get the right treatment and support and helps them, and those close to them, prepare for the future.
With the right treatment and support, many people are able to lead full and active lives.
Support and Advice
You can find support and advice using the links below. If you don't find what you are looking for, please call our friendly help desk team who will be able to help you on 0300 012 0122 or email helpdesk@healthwatchwestsussex.co.uk.
Dementia support and guidance from Carers Support West Sussex
Dementia Support from Age UK West Sussex, Brighton & Hove
Support, guidance and care from Dementia Support
Read more about living well with dementia
Find out where you can get support near you
How can I support Dementia Action Week?
#CureTheCareSystem
This Dementia Action Week, Alzheimer’s Society is calling on the Government to cure the care system by asking it to reform social care.
Find out more and sign the petition
Become a Dementia Friend
A Dementia Friend is someone who learns about dementia so they can help people in their community.
Find out more
For more information about dementia and Dementia Action Week, visit the Alzheimer’s Society website
