Dementia Friendly Chapel Allerton Public Meeting
Population ageing is a global phenomenon. With increases in life expectancy and reductions in fertility many countries now have a significant proportion of their population aged 60 and over. Population ageing is undeniably a triumph for humanity, however, for those who live into older age, wisdom and maturity are accompanied by a higher risk of developing dementia ( estimated at one in three over 65’s)
There are 800,000 people currently living with dementia in the UK, most common in older people but there are many young people with dementia as well. In Leeds, there are approximately 8,400 people with dementia.
‘Dementia’ is not a disease in itself but a group of different brain disorders that result in a loss of brain function. Dementia is caused when the brain is damaged by diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease or a series of strokes. Confusion, problems with memory and communication make it harder to do things often taken for granted and being progressive, these symptoms often get worse. Early diagnosis is key, along with strong support networks so that peoples wellbeing can be maintained for longer and the high costs associated with the condition can be reduced.
It was in 2012 that we saw the launch of the the dementia friendly communities programme. Five years ago the concept of dementia friendly communities was unheard of and it’s fantastic to see so many villages, towns, cities and communities taking steps to becoming dementia friendly where people with dementia are empowered to have aspirations and feel confident, knowing they can contribute and participate in activities, use amenities and services, feel less isolated, feel safe and included. A third of people with dementia in the UK live alone in their community and 68% of these feel lonely.
Often very small steps can make a big difference to peoples lives and wellbeing, like: better awareness or training for customer facing staff, public services such as the transport system and libraries to local supermarkets and churches. Sadly, people with dementia are targeted because of their vulnerability and door step crime is on the increase. Training and awareness within the emergency services has led to working in different ways with these victims of crime, changing their emphasis from prosecution to safeguarding and protection. Much of this is happening across the UK and Leeds is no exception.
“Dementia is one of the greatest challenges facing our ageing society, and possibly the condition in later life that people fear the most. But it is possible to live well with dementia as long as support and information is readily available from the start”
“Becoming a dementia-friendly community seems like a simple idea, but is complex in practice as it requires the commitment of so many businesses and organisations to make it work” Councillor Christine MacNiven, chair of the Dementia-Friendly Leeds Forum
Please join us on Thursday 5th June and help make Chapel Allerton a Dementia Friendly community. It’s just a public meeting to let everyone know our ambitions, raise awareness, gain a better understanding and gather support.
Everyone is welcome to attend. We hope to see you there.
