What is Dementia Action Week?
Monday 16 May kickstarts Alzheimer's Society's national Dementia Action Week campaign for 2022. Each year, the Alzheimer's Society work with individuals and organisations across the UK to encourage people to ‘act on dementia’. This year’s campaign will run from 16-22 May and the theme is diagnosis.
If you or a loved one is experiencing memory loss, it could be a sign of dementia.
Our research shows that the misconception around memory loss being a sign of normal ageing is the biggest barrier to people seeking a dementia diagnosis.
With diagnosis rates falling to a five-year low, we want to encourage those who might be living with undiagnosed dementia to come to us for guidance and support and feel empowered to take the next step.
Getting a diagnosis can be daunting, but we believe it’s better to know. And so do 91% of people affected by dementia." Alzheimer's Society 2022.
I look after a loved one who has Dementia, how can I get involved?
There are activities and events running throughout the week across the South Tees area, below are details covering what is happening in your local authority area.
Middlesbrough:
A drop-in facility, will be held each day from the 16 – 21 May, in the Hill Street Centre (next to the Muffins Café) and the Cleveland Centre (outside the O2 phone shop) for members of the public who are concerned that they or a loved one may be experiencing signs of dementia, to come forward and speak to Organisations and Professionals, who can offer practical advice and information on what steps to take, what to expect during and after a dementia diagnosis, and what support is available.
You can find out why it is important to have an assessment to test if you have dementia, and the benefits of receiving a diagnosis.
Going through an assessment as early as possible can give you a number of advantages and if you are given a diagnosis of dementia, you will also usually be told what type of dementia it is (although this cannot always be confirmed). Knowing which type of dementia you have can help you to understand your symptoms, predict how the dementia might progress, and know how to manage your symptoms.
Dementia Friendly Cinema Screening
When? Monday 16 May, doors open at 11am for 11:30am screening.
Where? Cineworld in Middlesbrough.
Film: Singing in the Rain, .
How? Book tickets in person from Cineworld Box Office or via www.cineworld.co.uk
Please note: Wheelchair spaces are limited so please do book in advance.
Redcar & Cleveland:
Other activities:
Free train ride for people with Dementia and their carer on the Teesside Small Gauge Railway followed by a short walk around the green. Preston Park, Sunday May 22, 12:15-1pm. For further information contact Teesside Dementia Link Service: 07722958610 email: tdls2016@virginmedia.com
