Village Agent News
Memory, Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease
This month I thought I’d talk about memory. Let me reassure you that memory problems are common. We all notice that our memory becomes less reliable as we get older. Tiredness, stress, overwork, anxiety, depression, some physical illness or the side effects of certain medications can all be factors. Maybe sometimes you just can’t put a name to a face, or you can’t remember where you left your keys. Most of the time such lapses are a nuisance, rather than a sign of something more serious. If however you are worried that your memory – or that of someone you know, is getting noticeably worse, or if memory loss is beginning to affect your every day life, it is worth sharing your worries and seeking advice as it could be an early sign of dementia so have a chat with your GP.
Whether a diagnosis comes as a shock, or confirms your suspicions, there are extremely good support services that are available through the Alzheimer’s Society and that are local to you. Many people who have Dementia of any type are supported at home by relatives, friends or neighbours. Supporting people with Dementia can be a worrying and exhausting experience. Stroud Alzheimer’s is there to help by offering, as flexible as possible, a home based support service.*
In addition, the local branch offers monthly activities.
1) Monthly Alzheimer’s Cafe’s held in Nailsworth (last Wednesday of the month from 2-4pm at the Christchurch Rooms, next to the Church in Newmarket Road)) and Minchinhampton (2nd Thursday of the month from 7-9pm at Horsfall House). Both venues have speakers, refreshments, music and support.
2) Singing for the Brain at Stonehouse Community Centre – twice monthly: This is a get together to meet, talk and sing with a qualified tutor leading the group. No musical experience is necessary! For dates, please ring below.
3) Monthly Carer’s Group held at Stonehouse Community Centre. This is to give carers an opportunity to gain support and time for themselves, whilst the person they care for takes part in organised social activities. Again for dates, please ring below.
4) Monthly meeting on the second Monday of the month there is a Memory Café at Cam Memorial Hall 10.30 – 12.30. For more information please telephone 01452 525222
The contact number for advice and information from Stroud Alzheimer’s Society, local branch is: 01453 791830.
*Information taken from the local Alzheimer’s Society.
If you would like more information about this article, or any other matters, please contact me – Christine Lingard on 07810 630 179. Village Agent.
I would like to draw your attention to some information which I found enlightening, and may be of help to you.
Should you find you are having any problems with your eyes do get an eye test as soon as possible. If it is impossible for you to get to an optician you may be able to arrange for one to visit you at home. Telephone your optician, and if they are unable to help please telephone me. Around 250,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with Macular Degeneration. If you are so unfortunate as to find you are suffering from this condition it is vital to catch the condition early as “wet” degeneration can be treated, which may prevent further deterioration and possibly even repair some of the damage to the eyes.
Some people with the onset of Macular Degeneration may suffer from hallucinations but are feeling well in themselves, lucid and not confused. If this is the case, it could be that they have Charles Bonnet Syndrome. Village Agents had been given a talk by Gloucestershire County Association for the Blind where we were told about this syndrome. The Casualty Eye Clinic verified that, other than giving reassurance and making sure the light conditions are at their best, there is nothing to be done. However the likelihood is that the hallucinations will stop within 18 months. Every case is different and though the whole experience may be alarming at least knowing that nearly everyone will get better is helpful. This is not a mental illness.
It is very important to get a diagnosis from your doctor if you are experiencing anything of this nature as there are often logical explanations, such as having an infection or a lack of fluids. In any event it is advisable to have your eyes tested regularly. You may not have to pay for an eye test, your optician will advise you what to expect.
Useful telephone numbers:
Macular Disease Society Helpline 0845 241 2041
Stroud and District MDS group, contact Sandra Best 01453 833614
Gloucestershire County Association for the Blind (GCAB) 01242 221170
Casualty Eye Clinic 08454 223 578 RNIB 0303 123 9999
If you would like any information about this article or any other matters please contact Christine Lingard, your Village Agent – Tel 07810 630 179
