‘Put us on your Christmas list’ urges charity as it seeks to support people with dementia in Cheshire

People across Cheshire are being urged to ‘put Alzheimer’s Society on their Christmas list’ as the charity seeks to ensure no one affected by dementia goes without the support they need over the festive season.

The charity has led the way in highlighting the devastating impact lockdown has had on those with the condition and their families.

And it is at the forefront of a campaign to end restrictions that have prevented family members from hugging, or even holding hands with, loved ones living with dementia in care homes.

Alzheimer’s Society is calling for designated family members to be given ‘key worker status’ which includes access to PPE and rapid, regular testing.

This acknowledges the vital role families often play in caring for loved ones in care homes, from assisting them with tasks such as eating and drinking to helping them articulate their needs, which can prove critical.

The charity’s dedicated army of expert Dementia Advisers are preparing for what could be their busiest ever festive period as people continue to struggle with isolation and loneliness, due to the current restrictions.

Dementia Advisers offer a personalised support service for people affected by dementia and provide advice, information and can connect people to other local services.

Steve Green, Area Manager for Alzheimer’s Society in Cheshire, said:

“Since lockdown began in March, Alzheimer’s Society’s vital support services have been used more than 2.7 million times and are proving to be a lifeline for thousands.

“More than a quarter of all coronavirus deaths have been people living with dementia, making them the worst-hit by the pandemic. Many more are isolated from social contact, essential health and care support which is why we need people to donate to our Christmas Appeal so anyone struggling will have a Dementia Adviser on hand when they need them.

“Your support could help make sure no one faces dementia alone. Donating is easy – simply visit alzheimers.org.uk”

Jenny Monk who is a Dementia Advisor in Cheshire West and Chester said: “I am supporting a woman whose mother has vascular dementia and stroke damage; she falls a lot. She is struggling with her caring role.

“I am glad I am there to offer the one-to-one dementia support for her and we are in regular touch. I feel that this illustrates the plight that carers face to access the most basic of services in a very difficult situation with COVID-19, which is why it’s so important that Alzheimer’s Society is on hand to help.”

The charity’s next major fundraising activity will be a star-studded virtual ‘Carols at Christmas’ event on Thursday 17 December, hosted by Oscar-nominated actress Carey Mulligan and featuring readings from actor Jonathan Pryce, actress Lesley Manville and Sir Trevor McDonald.

Pop group Scouting for Girls will sing their version of Wham’s Last Christmas. Also performing will be 80-year-old musician Paul Harvey.

Paul, who has dementia, made headlines around the world when a video of his composition, Four Notes, was viewed millions of times. The song has since been released with the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra as a charity single.

Taking part in the virtual event, which begins at 6:30pm, is free. However, Alzheimer’s Society is asking audience members to consider making a donation to support its vital work. To register or for further information, visit alzheimers.org.uk

Anyone affected by dementia can access information or advice through Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Connect support line seven days a week on 0333 150 3456. Its website (alzheimers.org.uk) and online community Talking Point are available 24/7.

About Alzheimer’s Society

·       Alzheimer's Society is the UK's leading dementia charity. We provide information and support, fund research, campaign to improve care and create lasting change for people affected by dementia in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

·       Dementia devastates lives. Alzheimer’s Society research shows that 850,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia.

·       Dementia deaths are rising year on year and 225,000 will develop dementia this year - that’s one every three minutes.

·       Dementia costs the UK economy over £26 billion per year. This is the equivalent of more than £30,000 per person with dementia. 

·       Alzheimer’s Society funds research into the cause, care, cure and prevention of all types of dementia and has committed to spend at least £100 million on research over the next decade.

·       Until the day we find a cure, Alzheimer's Society will be here for anyone affected by dementia - wherever they are, whatever they're going through. Everything we do is informed and inspired by them.

·       Let's take on dementia together. Volunteer. Donate. Campaign for change. Whatever you do, unite with us against dementia. 

·       Alzheimer’s Society relies on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0330 333 0804 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk.  

·       Alzheimer’s Society provides a Dementia Connect support line (0333 150 3456)

·       Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @AlzSocNWEngland and Like us on Facebook.com/AlzheimersSocietyNorthWest

·       YouTube channel www.youtube.com/AlzheimersSociety