Hampshire puts focus on Dementia Action Week

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL is urging people or caring for loved ones with dementia to find out more information about support available through the local authority commissioned group, entitled Hampshire Carer Support & Dementia Advice Service.

The move comes as we reach Dementia Action Week running from yesterday to this Sunday (May 22), with Hampshire County Council’s Executive Lead Member for Adult Services and Public Health, Councillor Liz Fairhurst saying: “If you or a loved one are experiencing memory loss, it could be a sign of dementia.”

“Getting a diagnosis can be daunting, but the sooner you know, the quicker you can get the right support in place. The county council funds a dedicated service, provided by leading local charity, Andover Mind, with information, advice and guidance to help support people with suspected dementia through the diagnostic process, as well as once a diagnosis has been received.”

The service: provides one-to-one support over the phone, online or face-to-face with a trained carer support worker or dementia adviser, focuses on wellbeing rather than illness; supports people to think about how they can come to terms with and live well with dementia and assists with the health and social care support available to people with a diagnosed dementia and their carer.

It furthermore offers advice on state benefits available alongside planning for the future and facilities links to the local carer support groups across Hampshire. The service can be contacted on 01264 332297 and selecting option 3 or email: enquiries@andovermind.org.uk.

Diagnosed

Across Hampshire there are more than 12,000 people aged 65 years and over who have been diagnosed with dementia, and according to Alzheimer’s Research UK there are estimated to be nearly 950,000 people living with dementia across the UK.

Families and carers who are concerned about a loved one with dementia, and may not be able to provide the help needed if anything unexpected happens, can get support from the Carers Emergency Planning Service.

The service is run by the Princess Royal Trust for Carers in Hampshire and helps registered carers to develop a personal contingency plan to ensure getting the right support in a crisis.

Further information about support for those with dementia can also be found on the Connect to Support Hampshire web pages.