Alzheimer's Society calls for volunteers to become 'dementia friends'
A charity marked world Alzheimer's day today by calling for more people to befriend those with dementia who have become lonely and isolated.
The Alzheimer’s Society wants to add to the 1.3 million people who have already signed up to its 'dementia friends' initiative since February 2013, which helps support the estimated 850,000 living with the condition.
MPs, business leaders and members of the emergency services have agreed to run information sessions aimed at eliminating stigma associated with dementia.
Jeremy Hughes, the society's chief executive, said: ‘Up and down the country, people are no longer being shunned and excluded from their communities. The response so far has been impressive, but we must not lose momentum because dementia continues to be the biggest health challenge of our time.
‘We urge people to become a dementia friend today, talk to others about dementia and encourage them to join the movement.’
Anyone can become a dementia friend by watching a short online video or attending a face-to-face session.
To find out more visit the Alzheimer's Society website.