The UK’s leading dementia charity is expecting a surge of New Year calls to their support line…
As families came together to celebrate the festivities, for some it may have been the first time they noticed significant changes which could be the signs of dementia in loved ones. Symptoms include memory loss, confusion, mood changes and problems with language and communication.
In the last two years, the charity has seen calls to its support line through January grow by 15%, a growing trend at this time of year since 2022 contributed to by ongoing activity to raise awareness of the importance of an early and accurate diagnosis and dispelling the common myth that dementia is just part of getting old.
Alzheimer’s Society’s Ambassadors comedian and author David Baddiel, actor Suranne Jones and celebrity supporter and actor Anne-Marie Duff, all of whom have a personal connection to dementia, have lent their voice to reenact some of the calls the charity’s support line receives, helping to shine a light on dementia and bring it out from behind closed doors.
The calls are just a glimpse of what Alzheimer’s Society’s expert dementia advisers will be preparing to receive in volume this coming month. They can offer practical and emotional support and advice on a variety of topics including getting diagnosed, caring strategies and how to access social care as well as signposting to other organisations who can provide legal and financial advice, for things such as benefits and grants.
Nearly 1,700 people affected by dementia responded to a survey about their access to Alzheimer’s Society’s support services, with 96% saying they were more informed, 92% felt more supported to manage and 78% having more confidence to make decisions. This shows the real impact supporting the charity’s Christmas Appeal can have on people living with dementia. Christmas should be a happy time filled with time with loved ones, laughter and memories. But sadly, dementia will strip these precious moments away.
Kate Lee, Chief Executive Officer for Alzheimer’s Society:
“Christmas can be challenging in many ways, but particularly for those affected by dementia so more support and guidance is needed in the wake of the festivities. We help people make the most of life with dementia, supporting them through some of the hardest and most frightening times. From a listening ear on the phone to a visit in person and opportunities to connect with others, we’ll be there for you again and again and again, no matter what.
“Dementia is the UK’s biggest killer with the realities often played out behind closed doors. With one in three people born today developing dementia, it has never been more crucial to shine a light on the condition and bring it out into the open.”
To donate, share your story or for more information, visit alzheimers.org.uk/Christmas or call 0333 150 3456.
