Alzheimer's Society information and education evenings

Am I at risk of developing dementia? What do I do if I think I have a problem with my memory?

These are only a few of the questions which could be answered by the Alzheimer's Society if you attend their new information and education evenings being held in February and March.

Adrian Friel, Dementia Support Manager with the Society, will be leading the evenings and presenting 'What is dementia?' which will take the listener through the various topic of dementia care.

Adrian said: "People are becoming more aware of the words dementia and Alzheimer's, awareness of the illness is on the increase and people need answers to questions.

"Through these evenings I will be able to give an in-depth understanding of all aspects of dementia and the support available through the Society."

Adrian will cover the topic of behaviours that we find challenging, the reasons behind them and coping strategies. There will also be an information stand on the evening in each location which will be manned by our volunteers.

The stand will have all the latest publications from the Society as well as fact sheets on different issues surrounding dementia care.

It would be great to see family members of a person diagnosiesed with a dementia at these evenings to highlight the importance of the illness, and the impact it has on the individual, the family and the wider community.

Adrian also said that the latest statistics show we are going to see a steady increase in the numbers of people diagnosed with one or another form of dementia and individuals need the proper knowledge now to help in the future. "Therefore I would encourage everyone to think about coming along to learn more about this illness," said Adrian.

These evenings are free and open to everyone so why not come along the numbers of people being diagnosed with a dementia is on the increase and you never know what you could gain form these evenings.

The dates of the evenings are Cramsie Room, Ballymoney Town Hall, February 17; Moyle District Council offices, Mary Street, Ballycastle, March 3; Peter Thompson Hall, Castlerock, March 3. They start at 7.30pm and finish by 9pm.

If you would like a home visit from the Dementia Support Manager then contact Adrian on 02870358887 to arrange an appointment,

Adrian can offer support, information and signposting on all areas of caring and any form of dementia.