World Alzheimers Day is taking place on Wednesday 21st September and is part of World Alzheimer’s Month, which aims to raise awareness about dementia and memory loss. This year, the Alzheimer’s Society want to focus on the power of knowledge.
The word dementia describes a set of symptoms that over time can affect memory, problem-solving, language and behaviour. Dementia is not a natural part of ageing, but rather is caused when a disease damages nerve cells in the brain. Nerve cells carry messages between different parts of the brain, and to other parts of the body. As more nerve cells are damaged, the brain becomes less able to work properly. Dementia can be caused by many different diseases, which affect the brain in different ways.
“By 2025, it is estimated that over one million people will be living with dementia in the UK, and many millions more partners, families and friends will be affected”
GOV.UK
The Alzheimer’s Society are working to create positive change for those living with dementia. A lack of treatments and postcode lottery for care means that people with dementia and their families aren’t getting the support they need when they desperately need it. Their support ensures that people living with dementia receive the care they deserve so that one day they can look to a brighter future thanks to investment in research.
You can make a donation via their website, or you can also find out more information about dementia and what the Alzheimer’s Society are doing to fight it.
