Dementia affects over 900,000 people in the UK and 1 in 3 people over 65. Across Black Country, there are over 14,200 people living with dementia. Just as importantly, 1 in 3 people will be touched by dementia in their lifetime as a carer. People living with dementia and their carers can access local support.
What is dementia?
Dementia is a syndrome (a group of related symptoms) associated with an ongoing decline of brain functioning. There are many different types and causes of dementia- dementia is not only about memory loss. It can also affect the way you speak, think, feel, and behave.
It's also important to remember that dementia is not a natural part of ageing.
Symptoms of dementia
Dementia symptoms may include problems with:
- memory loss
- thinking speed
- mental sharpness and quickness
- language, such as using words incorrectly, or trouble speaking
- understanding
- judgement
- mood
- movement
- difficulties doing daily activities
It's normal for your memory to be affected by stress, tiredness, certain illnesses, and medicines. But if you're becoming increasingly forgetful, particularly if you're over the age of 65, it's a good idea to talk to a GP about the early signs of dementia.
Support for people and relatives and carers with dementia
There are a number of services and support resources for people with dementia, as well as their relatives and carers.
Find support for Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall (coming soon) and Wolverhampton:
