September marks Alzheimer's Awareness Month, an opportunity to shed light on the realities of living with dementia, a condition affecting millions of people worldwide.
This month is crucial for raising awareness, reducing stigma, and advocating for better care and support for those affected. At We Change Lives, we understand the profound impact dementia can have, not just on those diagnosed but on their families and communities as well. This is why we're committed to supporting people with dementia in North West England through our dedicated elderly and dementia services.
A Call for Compassion and Action
Recently, Dementia UK released a poignant video titled "What would you say to the Prime Minister?" In this video, people living with dementia and those caring for them express their heartfelt pleas for better support. The message is clear: the current system is not enough. Families are struggling, and those with dementia often feel forgotten by decision-makers.
In the video, individuals from various walks of life share their experiences and frustrations. They talk about the overwhelming challenges of caring for someone with dementia—financial strain, emotional exhaustion, and the lack of specialised care. One recurring theme is the need for more Admiral Nurses, specialist dementia nurses provided by Dementia UK, who offer life-changing support to families facing dementia.
The speakers in the video urge the Prime Minister and other government leaders to prioritise dementia care in policy decisions. They call for increased funding, better access to care, and more widespread availability of resources. These are not just requests—they are urgent needs. The voices in the video are a stark reminder that behind every statistic is a person, a family, a story of struggle and, often, a lack of support.
The Importance of Alzheimer's Awareness Month
Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia, affecting an estimated 850,000 people in the UK alone . By 2025, this number is expected to surpass 1 million (Alzheimer's Society). Dementia is not a normal part of aging, and its impact is devastating. It robs people of their memories, sometimes their independence, and eventually, their lives.
Alzheimer's Awareness Month is about more than just raising awareness—it's about inspiring action. Dementia UK campaigns for better care so that everyone affected by dementia gets the specialist support they deserve. Their work with Parliament is crucial in ensuring that the voices of those affected by dementia are heard at the highest levels of decision-making.
Our Role at We Change Lives
At We Change Lives, we are committed to making a difference for older people, including those living with dementia, across North West England. Our services are designed to offer the care, support, and companionship that are so vital to those affected by this condition. From providing trained caregivers to offering activities that enhance quality of life, we are here to support both those with dementia and their families.
However, we know that we cannot do it alone. This is why we stand in solidarity during Alzheimer's Awareness Month. We advocate for the changes needed to ensure that everyone affected by dementia can access the support they need and deserve.
Join Us in Raising Awareness
As we observe Alzheimer's Awareness Month this September, let's remember that awareness is the first step toward change. We encourage you to watch the video by Dementia UK, and reflect on the stories shared. These voices are a powerful reminder of why we must continue to push for better care and support for people living with dementia.
Together, we can make a difference. Whether through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word, every action counts in the fight against dementia.
For more information about Alzheimer's Awareness Month and how you can get involved, please visit the Dementia UK and Alzheimer's Society websites. And to learn more about how We Change Lives is supporting people with dementia, please explore our services for older people here.
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