Campaign highlights dementia support
People living with or showing symptoms of dementia are being urged to access local support as part of a new campaign.
Defy Dementia has been launched by the Wychavon District Health Collaborative to reduce the fear around the condition and to highlight the range of support on offer.
The campaign will showcase the positive ways people continue to live an active life after a dementia diagnosis and empower people to take control of their dementia journey by becoming familiar with their local dementia network. It will also encourage people with any new concerns about their memory, regular bouts of confusion or sudden difficulties with speech and language to visit their GP.
Wychavon has one of the lowest rates of dementia diagnosis in the West Midlands. One reason people may not be seeking help is because of fear about the impact dementia will have on their life. There is also a popular misconception that symptoms such as memory loss are just ‘part of getting old’ which prevents people from seeking help and vital treatment.
The campaign will have a particular focus on Evesham where GPs have been strengthening their ties with local support services such as Evesham Dementia Alliance, Evesham and District Mental Health Support Services and Age UK. This will allow doctors to direct patients and their loved ones to places where they can begin building connections with people in similar situations. They can also get advice, even before they receive a formal diagnosis. This can help reduce isolation and loneliness amongst those with dementia.
Cllr Dan Birch, Wychavon’s Executive Board Member for Wellbeing, said: “The Defy Dementia campaign aims to provide help and support to those who are affected by dementia and challenge the stigma that surrounds it. Although there may not currently be a cure for dementia that doesn’t mean people affected by it should feel alone or isolated. We hope this scheme helps our residents access support when it matters most.”
Dr Neill Bramble, Clinical Director for the Vale of Evesham Primary Care Network, said: “Living with dementia can often seem frightening and lonely for patients and their family and friends.
“This campaign showcases the excellent local organisations which help to support people and connect them with experienced and friendly people who are passionate about living well with dementia”.
Visit the Wychavon Health and Wellbeing page for more information.
Wychavon District Health Collaborative is made up of a group of organisations working together to help people live well for longer and make sure they have access to the services they need.
Groups in the collaborative include:
- Wychavon District Council
- Groups of GP Practices (known as Primary Care Networks)
- Voluntary, community and charity organisations
- Schools and educational organisations
- NHS Trusts
- Worcestershire County Council
- Police
- Fire