Launch of new dementia campaign

A new campaign has been launched by the Department of Health, supported by the Alzheimer’s Society, to encourage people to talk to relatives showing signs of dementia.

The campaign was launched on World Alzheimer’s Day and will last for 3 months.  It aims to raise awareness of the condition, early signs and symptoms and how to get help.

Celebrities are getting involved, with Sir Michael Parkinson, Fiona Phillips and England goalkeeper Gordon Banks sharing their experiences.

The campaign, part of the Prime Minister’s Dementia Challenge, will encourage people to have the difficult conversation when they spot signs and symptoms of the condition. Signs may include short-term memory loss, unexplained anxiety or depression and problems thinking or reasoning.

Jeremy Hunt, Secretary of State for Health, said, “Our goal is to make this country a world leader in tackling the challenge of dementia. That requires us all to play our part; including being brave enough to start conversations about dementia to get our loved ones the early help we know makes a difference.”

Care and Support Minister Norman Lamb said, “Dementia is one of the biggest challenges we are facing, but while there remains no cure, early diagnosis can help people take control of their condition and plan for the future.  This campaign sends a clear and important message – if you spot signs or symptoms in your loved ones then have that difficult conversation because diagnosis makes a difference.”