Dementia Action Week 2022 will focus on the importance of getting a diagnosis. There are 525,000 people with a dementia diagnosis in the UK, but it is estimated that there are a further 420,000 living with undiagnosed dementia. In Brighton & Hove, there are around 2,800 people living with dementia and this is expected to rise steeply over the next 20 years.
Early diagnosis
Dementia Action Week 2022 will focus on the importance of getting a diagnosis. There are 525,000 people with a dementia diagnosis in the UK, but it is estimated that there are a further 420,000 living with undiagnosed dementia. In Brighton & Hove, there are around 2,800 people living with dementia and this is expected to rise steeply over the next 20 years.
If you or a loved one is experiencing memory loss, it could be a sign of dementia.
Getting a diagnosis can be daunting, but the Alzheimer’s Society, which provides support and advice to people affected by dementia, says it’s better to know. A timely diagnosis can help avoid a crisis. Most of those who waited to get a diagnosis for two or more years wished they’d received a sooner diagnosis.
The biggest barrier to people seeking a dementia diagnosis is the misconception that symptoms like memory loss are a sign of normal ageing.
Vital care and support
Diagnosis rates are at a five-year low, meaning thousands of people are living with undiagnosed dementia. Therefore, they don’t have access to the vital care and support a diagnosis can bring.
If you or someone you love is concerned about memory loss and would like a diagnosis, please get in touch with your GP.
Jason Willcox, of Brighton and Hove Memory Assessment Service, said: “There can be great value in receiving a diagnosis of dementia, as it can access treatment and support otherwise unavailable. Early diagnosis helps people plan their care and focus on what matters most to them.
“In our memory assessment service, we believe you can live well with a dementia diagnosis. Our care and support focusses on the whole person - your mind and body - and include your loved ones.’’
Patients say the service helps improve or maintain their quality of life, despite a dementia diagnosis. They also say they are helped to understand their diagnosis and treated with compassion, respect and dignity.
Jason added: “Experiencing cognitive impairment and memory issues, can be a scary time and our memory assessment service ensures we go on this journey together and support you and those you care for every step of the way.’’
Dementia friendly city
Our ambition is for Brighton & Hove to be an age and dementia friendly city. Somewhere that’s a great place for everyone to grow older and where those living with dementia, and their loved ones are an active part of their city.
Landmarks lit-up
To raise awareness of dementia in the city and the importance of early diagnosis, the Pier and the British Airways i360 will be lighting up blue and we’re supporting a special programme of dementia friendly sessions marking this awareness week.
Dementia-friendly sessions
Sessions are bookable, or drop-in and sometimes free, to which anyone affected by dementia are invited. The programme of events and how to attend is on our website.
These include:
- Dementia friendly music sessions
- Encouraging meaningful moments with people you know living with dementia
- Bus ride to One Garden for tour, music, and picnic
- A group conversation inspired by artist Fabrica's exhibition
- Memory cafes
- We are LGBTQ+ People Affected by Dementia: Ask Us Anything webinar
Dementia Friendly communities
Sue Shanks, chair of Brighton & Hove Health & Wellbeing Board, said: “Dementia Action week gives us the chance to show off the good progress we’re making on our journey towards the city being a dementia and age friendly place to live.
“This ambition to make those with dementia feel safe and supported is being realised through our strong partnerships with businesses, charities and other community groups.
“The strength of the dementia friendly movement is demonstrated by the wide range of events staged throughout the city during this week. We encourage everyone affected by dementia to come along to the dementia awareness events.’’
Sources of dementia support
Further sources of help are available through our website and Ageing Well Brighton & Hove, and The Alzheimer’s Society has details of support (@alzheimerssoc #dementiaawareness), while books on dementia are available from your local library
