Dementia Awareness Event in Clitheroe

The event will take place at the Grand in York Street on Tuesday 20 November, from 4.00 - 6.00pm.

It has been organised by Ribble Valley Borough Council, Age UK Lancashire, the Alzheimer's Society and NHS East Lancashire.

It is targeted at family carers and community groups, and aims to raise awareness of the signs, symptoms, concerns and implications of dementia.

Ribble Valley Borough Council partnership officer David Ingham said: "Many of us notice that our memory gets worse as we get older, but it can be difficult to tell whether this is a sign of an underlying condition, such as dementia.

"The event aims to raise awareness of the signs, symptoms, concerns and implications of dementia and provide information and advice on what to do for anyone worried about their or a loved one's memory."

Age UK Lancashire support manager Kath Mitchell added: "We are very pleased to support this event, as memory loss and worries about dementia and its impact affect many of the people we come in contact with through our services. 

"Many people aren't aware of the support and treatment that is available. We are in contact with a number of people who continue to lead happy and fulfilled lives, planning for the future with a diagnosis of dementia, and would encourage anyone with concerns for themselves, a friend or family member, to come along to the event and find out what support is available."

The event will include presentations and information on the signs and symptoms of dementia, the diagnostic process and post-diagnosis services and support.

Other attendees will include Help Direct, St Vincent's Housing Association, Carers Link and Crossroads Care.

David Ingham added: "We hope the event will increase awareness of the issues faced by people with dementia and their families, and offer those who may be concerned about dementia the first step in getting help."

The event is free and refreshments will be provided. Further details are available from David Ingham on 01200 414549.

Dementia facts:

1. Dementia describes different brain disorders that trigger a loss of brain function, the most common being Alzheimer's Disease, which affects 62 per cent of sufferers.
2. Symptoms of dementia include memory loss, confusion and problems with speech and understanding.
3. There are 800,000 people with dementia in the UK, which is expected to rise to over a million by 2021.
4. One in three people over 65 will die with dementia.
5. Dementia will cost the UK over £23billion in 2012, expected to rise to £27billion a year by 2018.
6. Unpaid carers supporting someone with dementia save the economy £8billion a year.