Dementia Awareness talk

Jersey Cheshire Home is hosting a Dementia Awareness talk designed to help islanders to better understand dementia and how small actions can make a big difference to those living with the condition.

The session will be open to the general public as well as professionals such as healthcare assistants, carers and anyone who supports family or friends with dementia.

Based on the Dementia Friends initiative, the UK’s largest movement to change perceptions of dementia, the session will encourage people to learn more about the condition and explore simple ways to support those living with it. Actions range from improving conversations to making practical changes in the home environment.

Participants will learn the five key facts everyone should know about dementia:

• Dementia is not a natural part of ageing
• It is caused by diseases of the brain
• It’s not just about memory loss
• It’s possible to live well with dementia
• There is more to the person than the dementia

The session will also highlight lifestyle choices that can, according to research, reduce the risk of developing dementia by up to 45%.

Discussing the event, Jane Vincent (pictured) Community Education Coordinator and Meeting Place Project Facilitator at Dementia Jersey said: “This session is about empowering people with knowledge and practical ideas. Dementia affects so many in our community and by learning how we can support people better, we can make everyday life more inclusive and understanding.”

Lily Opinca, Registered Manager of Jersey Cheshire Home, added: “Our aim is to open up the conversation around dementia and provide a space where both the public and professionals feel equipped to make a difference. This is an important step in creating a more dementia-friendly island.”