Dementia Action Week 2018

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Dementia Action Week 2018

This week is Dementia Action Week 2018 (21st-27th of May). There are currently 850,000 people living with dementia in the UK. Approximately 1 in 14 people over the age of 65 are living with dementia and approximately 40,000 are living with young-onset dementia (onset before the age of 65).

Janis Cottee a star volunteer of Jon Cruddas MP and committed dementia campaigner, recently attended an All-Party Parliamentary Group on Dementia meeting. Attending as a carer, Janis participated in conversations around dementia and disability.

In the last few years, recognition that dementia is a disability has been an important part of campaigning for change for people living with the condition. Acknowledging that dementia can be a disability that often prevents people living independent lives will be an important step towards people getting the support they need.

In 2018, the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Dementia continue to hold inquiries into dementia and disability. They would like to find out what people think ? you can complete their survey here: www.alzheimers.org.uk/appg

The enquiry covers all forms of dementia and all ages. Disability is one of the protected characteristics within the Equality Act. Although people with dementia can experience discrimination on many grounds, this inquiry is focusing on disability.

Janis and many other carers who attended the meeting, were asked to answer specific questions on dementia and disability. Talking about dementia is an important action throughout the year, but especially during Dementia Action Week. If you would like to take part in The APPG's inquiry, you can answer questions through their online survey available at www.alzheimers.org.uk/appg

The APPG will be gathering evidence until Friday 20th of July 2018 and would like to hear from people affected by dementia, carers and people with disabilities, healthcare professionals/professional bodies, and healthcare and service providers.