Reduce the risks of memory loss
Memory loss is often one of the first signs of dementia. Everyone forgets things every now and again; however a person with dementia will gradually forget things with increased frequency and significance.
Today it is estimated that over 200,000 people in Australia are living with dementia, and those over the age of 65 have an increased risk of developing the condition, with that risk doubling every five years.
Younger people are not immune; dementia has been diagnosed in people who are in their 50’s, 40’s and even 30’s.
Sue Wormleaton is a full-time carer for her husband John, who is 67-years-old. He was diagnosed with early onset dementia at 62.
“It’s not just older people who suffer from this condition, it happens to younger people as well and people can’t seem to understand that,” Mrs Wormleaton said.
“When John was first diagnosed I used to get angry because I didn’t know how to deal with it. It was just frustration, he used to just forget and do little things in the beginning.
“I started to deal with what was happening when I began attending carers groups. I received continued support and over the years I’ve learnt to cope with it.
“Attending workshops and support groups helps you understand how to care for yourself.
“Get involved, it helps you and the person your caring for.”
The Hunter New England Health’s Newcastle/Lake Macquarie Dementia Advisory Service, funded by Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care (DADHC) and Alzheimer’s Australia NSW, will be promoting a display and stall, where you can learn about healthy ageing, stress minimisation and how to reduce the risk of developing memory loss.
Staff will be present to answer questions and provide relevant information in the following Shopping Centres as part of Dementia Awareness Week:
Charlestown Square Shopping Centre
Wednesday 16 September 2009
9am – 5.30pm
Belmont Citi Shopping Centre
Thursday 17 September 2009
10am – 4pm
Jesmond Stockland Shopping Centre
Friday 18 September 2009
9.30am – 4.30pm
Glendale Shopping Centre
Thursday 24 September 2009
10am – 4pm
Additionally, Hunter New England Health’s Newcastle/Lake Macquarie Dementia Advisory Service will also be presenting a free two hour information session called “Mind Your Mind” that will be held at:
Mayfield Ex-Services Club
58 Hanbury Street, Mayfield
Wednesday 23 September 2009
6.00pm to 8.00pm
Topics to be presented
- Mind Your Mind program outline
- Memory – How It Works
- Exercise Your Mind and Body
- Support Groups, Education and Services available
Contact: Lucas Coleman
Phone: 4985 5522