‘We’re here for everyone affected by dementia in Wales this Christmas’

The past year has been difficult for everyone, but for people affected by dementia, the challenges have been enormous and with devastating consequences – 27.5% of the people who have died from Covid-19 also had dementia, making it the largest affected group.

Alzheimer’s Society Cymru’s dementia advisers have continued to be a lifeline to the 45,000 people living with dementia in Wales, as well as their carers and loved ones. Earlier this year, Alzheimer’s Society Cymru research revealed that 4.8 million extra hours have been spent by family and friends caring for loved ones with dementia in Wales during the pandemic. And in a recent survey, the charity found that 44% of carers said that the pandemic has had a strong negative emotional impact on their mental health.

Alzheimer’s Society Cymru Dementia Adviser, Helen Payton, said:

“We want everyone affected by dementia in Wales to know that Alzheimer’s Society Cymru is always here for them, whenever they need us. It’s thanks to players of People’s Postcode Lottery for raising millions of pounds that Alzheimer’s Society Cymru’s dementia advisers can provide this crucial support.

“As a dementia adviser, I provide practical and emotional support to people affected by dementia. Usually, we’re community-based, and support people with more complex dementia needs by visiting them face to face and developing a tailored plan of support. But since March 2020, Alzheimer’s Society Cymru has paused face to face services due to coronavirus, in order to protect the physical wellbeing of both staff and people affected by dementia.

“We were forced to adapt with rapid speed, ensuring all our existing services could be carried out virtually or over the phone. Over the past eight months, dementia advisers have led on the frontline of the charity’s coronavirus response.

“Dementia advisers can offer post diagnosis support to help people with dementia have better access to health, their community, housing and care services, as well as providing crucial emotional support so people with dementia can take control of their condition and live the life they choose.

“The coronavirus crisis has brought the issues facing people affected by dementia into even sharper focus. Breaks from routine and diminished social contact has caused an increase in dementia symptoms leading to many people living with dementia losing everyday skills like making a cup of tea, dressing themselves, reading writing or even speaking. During this time, dementia advisers have continued to be a lifeline, keeping in touch with everyone who needs them, at a time when they need them more than ever.”

Alzheimer’s Society Cymru is there for anyone affected by dementia through its Dementia Connect support line on 0333 150 3456 (or call the Wales support line on 0300 222 1122). It’s thanks to players of People’s Postcode Lottery, who have raised £2.3 million for Alzheimer’s Society, that the charity’s dementia advisers can continue transforming the lives of people affected by dementia. The Dementia Connect support line is open seven days a week. For more information about Alzheimer’s Society Cymru and dementia visit alzheimers.org.uk