Date:
Members of the Woking Dementia Action Alliance will be raising awareness of dementia and the support available to local residents through a series of events and activities to mark Dementia Action Week (20 to 24 May 2019).
Within Surrey there are over 16,000 people living with dementia, with an estimated 1,200 people in Woking alone. Dementia is the broad term that describes a group of symptoms, such as memory loss, personality changes and changes in behaviour, that are caused by many diseases affecting the brain.
A common misconception about dementia is that it is something which happens when people get old, but in fact it is not a natural part of ageing with some rarer types affecting people under the age of 65.
Cllr Beryl Hunwicks, Woking Borough Council's Portfolio Holder for Health and Wellbeing, said: "Dementia is such a debilitating condition that not only affects the individual, but also their friends and family, many of whom play the role of their carer.
“Through Dementia Action Week, our aim is to raise awareness of dementia and its impact, as well as the variety of services and support available through the Woking Dementia Action Alliance. We want to encourage and support action that will help transform the quality of life of people with dementia and those who care for them in Woking.
“Whether you live with, care for, or know someone with dementia, I would encourage you to get involved during Dementia Action Week.”
All activities are free to attend and open to professionals and members of the public affected by dementia or memory loss.
For a full schedule of events and activities taking place during Dementia Action Week and how to book, please visit www.woking.gov.uk/dementiaweekwoking