Date:
A series of events will take place in Woking to mark Dementia Action Week 2022, from 16 to 22 May. The awareness week is run annually by the Alzheimer’s Society, and the theme for 2022 is ‘diagnosis’.
Diagnosis rates for dementia have fallen to a five-year low and the Alzheimer’s Society is encouraging those experiencing common dementia symptoms, such as memory loss, personality changes and changes in behaviour, to seek guidance and support in understanding those symptoms. Research by the Society indicates that the biggest barrier to those seeking a diagnosis is the misconception that memory loss is a normal sign of ageing.
This year’s Dementia Action Week aims to help those who might be living with undiagnosed dementia to understand potential symptoms, to come forward for guidance and support, and to feel empowered to take the next steps towards diagnosis, helping to improve the diagnostic process in the future.
Julie Meme, Woking Borough Council's Health and Wellbeing Manager, said: “A dementia diagnosis can seem intimidating, but it is the first step towards receiving the necessary care and support for both the individual with dementia and their friends and family who often act as a carer to them.
“Many people with dementia experience a delayed diagnosis due to the assumption that memory loss is normal as people age, and because those affected are in denial of their symptoms and the possible implications. However, 91% of people affected by dementia say that it is better to know for sure.
“By supporting the Alzheimer Society’s Dementia Action Week, we aim to raise awareness of dementia in the borough and help signpost those impacted by it to the services and support available. We also hope to educate our residents on the small changes they can implement that make a big difference to those living with dementia.
“Whether you are personally affected by dementia or not, I encourage everyone to get involved with Dementia Action Week 2022.”
During the week, Woking Borough Council will be running a series of events from Monday 16 to Thursday 19 May, open to residents across the borough to raise awareness of the disease and its symptoms, and fundraise for the Alzheimer's Society.
For the full schedule of events, visit https://woking.gov.uk/dementiaaction