Dementia Action Week, which runs from 13-19 May, is a national campaign, coordinated by The Alzheimer’s Society.
The aim of the week is to raise awareness about the disease and encourage more people who are worried about it to seek help.
On Monday, 13 May, we will be turning the lights blue outside Hounslow House to mark the start of the week and confirm our commitment to keep Hounslow a dementia friendly borough.
The Alzheimer’s Society and other Council partners are hosting a series of events throughout the week where you can learn more about services and support in Hounslow.
The week kicks off with Living Well with Dementia, an event at Syon House on Monday, 13 May for anyone affected by dementia – including family members and carers.
What is dementia?
Dementia is a condition that affects a person’s memory, thinking, and their ability to perform everyday tasks.
The main symptoms are:
- Memory loss
- Confusion and needing help with routine jobs
- Problems with language and understanding
- Changes in behaviour
The most common type of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, but there are over 100 types of dementia.
It is a progressive illness, which means the symptoms can get worse over time.It mainly affects people over 65 and currently, there is no cure for it. It is the main killer in the UK and one in three people born today will develop dementia in their lifetime.
Organisations like The Alzheimer’s Society stress that early diagnosis of dementia is the key to managing the condition.
With the right level of treatment and support, a person with dementia can live well for as long as possible.
You can find more about dementia, including how to get a diagnosis, at The Alzheimer’s Society website.
Glimpses
In Hounslow, you’re never alone.
This is the message that Hounslow Council and its partners want to share with everyone across the borough, both during Dementia Action Week and throughout the year.
Watch our award-nominated short film Glimpses for a moving look at the impact of dementia and how you can access support for yourself or a loved one.
What’s happening
There is a range of activities taking place around Hounslow during Dementia Action Week, aimed at raising awareness about the condition and signposting our residents affected by dementia to local support.
There will be information sessions throughout the week both online and at in-person across Hounslow.
Working with The Alzheimer’s Society and other partners, we have also produced a packed programme of events.
Here is what is taking place:
Monday, 13 May
Living Well with Dementia – Syon House Great Conservatory, 11.30am – 3pm
An event at the beautiful Syon House Great Conservatory filled with informative sessions and engaging activities. Learn practical tips and strategies to enhance the quality of life for those living with dementia. Connect with experts in the field and gain valuable insights into caregiving and support.
Singing for the Brain – online
Tuesday, 14 May
Online drop-in information session – Via Teams, 11am-12pm
A Special Dementia Friends Information session followed by a q&a with a dementia adviser and a solicitor where your questions about lasting power of attorney and other topics will be answered. You will be emailed full joining instructions when you book on to the session.
Wednesday, 15 May
Online drop-in information session – Via Teams, 6pm-7pm
A Special Dementia Friends Information session followed by a q&a with a dementia adviser and a solicitor where your questions about lasting power of attorney and other topics will be answered. You will be emailed full joining instructions when you book on to the session.
Taking Positive Action for Dementia Care – Online, 10am-12.30pm
As part of Dementia Action Week, NHS West London is holding an online conference for health and care professionals. The conference will bring together those involved in dementia care from across West London to share innovative approaches and best practice.
There will be talks from experts in dementia care but also those living with dementia. Pre-booking required.
Dementia information stand with EDCS – West Middlesex Hospital atrium, 9.30am-2.30pm
Thursday, 16 May
Hounslow Adult Social Care Info Shop (with the Alzheimer’s Society) – West Middlesex Hospital atrium, 10am-3pm
Dementia Café - Heston Pools and Fitness, TW5 0LW, 12.30pm-2pm
Chat to people with dementia, their carers, family and friends at the friendly and relaxed dementia café. At each session you can ask questions, share your experiences and get the help, advice and information you need in an informal and sociable setting. Delivered by Right at Home and Lampton Leisure
Friday, 17 May
Dementia information stand - Hounslow Jamia Masjid and Islamic Centre and Mosque – 12pm-3.30pm
Find out more about dementia and the support available in our borough.
Sunday, 19 May
Dementia information stand - Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Hounslow, TW3 3UA, 11am-2pm
Find out more about dementia and the support available in our borough.
Thursday, 23 May
Boston Manor Sensory Walk - Boston Manor Park, Boston Manor Rd, TW8 9JX, 12pm - 1pm
You’ll be using all your senses during this guided activity to experience and enjoy the natural surroundings, along with some gentle, mindful movement. Meet by The Hub.
