Client Information
New Magazine to stimulate memories!
Lifetime is a new large print magazine for older people who like reading, but who are beginning to have trouble with their memories. Its written and published by Jude Irwin, whose parents both have dementia. "I kept wishing there was something they could read easily that would be interesting for them, " says Jude, who is a writer and designer. "I noticed ordinary magazines and newspapers were too busy, and the text was too small, so I decided to create a monthly magazine for people like them, based on their own memories of the past." The first edition features both Judes parents which she says has opened up a whole new world for them all. "They can read the magazine on their own or share it with others, and each conversation brings up something new." Jude hopes more families will benefit from Lifetime, as her and her parents have and she hopes more readers - or their families - will come forward with their own stories and pictures, so they can see themselves on the pages of Lifetime.
Jude is giving away free copies of her October 2011 edition while stocks last. After that, issues cost £1.65 each, plus postage, or £12.95 including postage for six months' subscription. If you'd liek to know more, or would like to subscribe, please go to www.lifetime-memorymag.co.uk or email Jude at theworddoctor@btinternet.com.
Oct 2011
Dementia: Early Signs & Symptons Campaign
The Government has launched this campaign to build on last years Living Well with Dementia campaign to encourage people to recognise the signs and symptons of dementia and to speak to their GP if they have any concerns. Dementia can be spotted early and this campaign is aimed at improving the quality of life of those with the condition.
It can be difficult to raise the issue of dementia with a loved one. However early diagnosis means patients can receive appropriate treatment earlier and can get the care and support to ensure they are able to live well. Typically people with dementia feel relieved when they are diagnosed with the condition, as they are reassured to know what the problem is and that there are strategies they can develop to deal with their condition.
Below are some of the signs and symptons of dementia. If you are worried that a loved one is displaying signs, encourage them to speak to their GP;
* Struggles to remember recent events, although can easily recall things from the past
* Finds it hard to follow conversations or programmes on TV
* Forgets the names of friends or everyday objects
* Cannot recall things they have heard, seen or read
* Repeats themselves or loses the thread of what they are saying
* Has problems thinking and reasoning
* Feels anxious or depressed
* Feels confused even when in a familiar environment
There are treatments and support services available for individuals with dementia and their carers. For further information visit www.nhs.uk/dementia
Dementia Facts
* Dementia describes different brain disorders that trigger a loss of brain function. These conditions are all usually progressive and eventually severe.
* Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia, affecting 62% of those diagnosed.
* There are currently 650,00 people with dementia in England.
* 25 million people in the UK know a family member, close friend, or someone else with dementia.
* Dementia costs the UK over £17 billion each year in care costs and hospital admissions.
* Unpaid carers supporting someone with dementia save the economy £6 billion a year.
* There are over 16,000 people under 65 with dementia in the UK.
* Although dementia is a terminal condition, people can live with it for 7-12 years after diagnosis.
* By 2025 there will be over 1 million people in the UK living with dementia.