Dementia : Help, support and hope exists

PEOPLE concerned in Carmarthenshire about any family members or friends displaying any symptoms of dementia are being encouraged to seek help.

Raising awareness of dementia is extremely challenging not least because people are living longer and the number of dementia sufferers is expected to double in the next generation from the existing 5,712 to 10,161 in the next 20 years.

County executive board member for health and social care Cllr Jane Tremlett said: “Carmarthen Dementia Action Board has been raising awareness of the many forms of the condition. Signposting how to cope if it strikes has been a key element of their role.

“People want to know more about the condition, what to do and what it means for the future for all the family and the wider community.”

The Board,  made up of professionals, carers and those living with dementia, has boldly launched a campaign with a colourful and thought provoking series of cartoon strips called ‘Gone with the Wynd’ that has received county-wide attention.

Later in the year the cartoons will be distributed to doctor’s for display in all GP surgery waiting rooms.

It is hoped that some people might relate the behaviour depicted in the cartoons with possible early onset dementia presenting in their own families and for those who may not have to seek the help that is available.

For too long dementia has been a taboo or embarrassing and unspoken about illness often concealed within families. This is largely because it is one of the most feared brain diseases, robbing people of their memory bit by bit.

In an aging population it shows no signs of slowing down and while there are many stories about dementia causes, symptoms and prevention there are few suggesting there is help, support and hope.

A community memory clinic has been established in Llandybie Hall on the first and third Fridays of the month. Local GP’s review the care of people who have a diagnosis of dementia. At the same time a team consisting of the memory clinic nurse and a social worker from the Alzheimer’s Society are available for both the people attending the clinic and anyone else who wants advice or support in relation to dementia.

Board member and dementia carer for more than 15-years, Jacqueline Rideout, said: “We need to be inventive, brave and inspirational to tackle the growing challenges of dementia in our communities to help all those who can be touched by this devastating condition.

“Combining awareness with action is essential. This important project using cartoons gives us that opportunity with a wider platform to let more people know there is help available”

• The person who experiences memory loss may need care and support to continue to live in their own home.
• The doctor can refer them to social care or calls can be made to Careline on 01267 224466.
• Social care will contact families to see how their difficulties can resolved.
• The care provided will vary according for the person’s assessed needs.
• Personal alarms and monitors are available.
• There are support opportunities at home with washing, dressing and meals.

More information: www.carmarthenshire.gov.wales/dementia

www.sirgar.llyw.cymru/dementia