Cloonavin lights up blue for Dementia Action Week
Wed, May 17, 2023
Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council’s headquarters at Cloonavin is lighting up blue this week, 15 -21 May to mark Dementia Action Week.
The Alzheimer’s Society is encouraging those who are concerned that they or a someone close to them may be experiencing signs of dementia to use their online symptom checker, which is accredited by Royal College of GPs.
Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council’s Age Friendly Officer, Liam Hiphney has recently re-established a Dementia Working Group, bringing together a number of organisations and agencies to explore how we can work collectively to support those living with and those caring for someone with dementia.
Mayor of Causeway Coats and Glens, Councillor Ivor Wallace said:
“Through Dementia Action Week, we want to raise awareness of dementia and to encourage those who might be living with undiagnosed dementia to understand and recognise potential symptoms, seek guidance and support, and feel empowered to take their next step.”
Aoife McMaster from Causeway Alzheimer’s Society said:
“The theme of this year’s Dementia Action Week is diagnosis. We chose the theme of diagnosis this year as there has been a sustained drop in dementia diagnosis rates. Our research found that misconceptions around memory loss, being in denial, and specialist referral times are the biggest barriers to getting people to seek a diagnosis.”
“We also offer guidance and practical advice on what next steps to take, what to expect during and after the diagnosis process, and what support Alzheimer’s Society can offer throughout.”
If you are worried about yourself, or someone close to you, then check your symptoms now at www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/symptoms-and-diagnosis/symptoms-checklist
Support and more information about a diagnosis is just a phone call or click away. Visit alzheimers.org.uk/memoryloss or call 0333 150 3456.
You can also contact the local Dementia Advisor at causeway@alzheimers.org.uk or 028 7035 8887.
