| Every second person living in the UK is going to be affected by dementia in their lifetime! Either by developing the condition themselves, caring for someone with the condition or both. That daunting outlook was delivered by David Janetta, founder, Trustee and Managing Director of local charity Alzheimer/Dementia Support (ADS) in Maidenhead, at the Rotary evening event at the Odney Club in Cookham last Monday.  | It's estimated that 986,000 people are living with dementia in the UK, and it is believed that figure will reach 1,4 million by 2040. Amongst the already diagnosed people, 65% are women. The highest rise is in people who are in their 40's, although a three year old has been diagnosed with the condition, as well as a baby. Thankfully everything isn't all doom and gloom. There is some help available. A visit to the GP for a referral to a Memory Clinic will lead to a diagnosis after which medication can be given. The medication will not cure the condition, but will slow it down. For those already living with the condition stimulation is a must. Singing, dancing, exercising, going for a picnic, popping in to a coffee shop or any other kind of outing is very beneficial. The charity has even taken its 'patients' for a visit to Buckingham Palace! The book 'A Kid's Guide to Dementia' (a brainchild of ADS) is now selling worldwide and is recommended for both young and old. |