Taking action for Croydon residents this Dementia Action Week
Residents are being encouraged to take simple steps to protect their brain health during this year’s Dementia Action Week, 19-25 May.
Croydon’s Dementia Action Alliance, which includes Croydon Council, Croydon Health Services NHS Trust and partners across the One Croydon Alliance are joining forces during the week sharing easy tips, facts, and local support available to help people lead healthier lives and support brain health at any age.
They will focus on how healthy lifestyle choices can help reduce the risk of dementia and encourage people to follow the advice of Alzheimer’s UK Think Brain Health campaign.
Small daily actions such as eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, quitting smoking, cutting down on alcohol, and looking after your mental wellbeing can make a big difference.
Residents can also attend local events during Dementia Action Week to find out more about their brain health and dementia, and what they can do to support people living with the condition, and their carers.
Events include Croydon’s David Lean cinema showing the film Flow in a dementia-friendly setting, where the lights are on and people can talk and feel relaxed during the show. Age UK Croydon is hosting health hubs at Scratchley Hall in Thornton Health and in Purley and Selsdon libraries. There will also be an information stand at Croydon University Hospital. Find out more about events throughout the week here.
During May and beyond, people living with dementia and their carers can take part in creative activities in a fun, welcoming and supportive environment at the Museum of Croydon.
Over 3,500 local residents are living with dementia, with thousands more friends, family and loved ones providing them with much needed support.
Dr Alan Earnshaw, Consultant Geriatrician at Croydon Health Services NHS Trust, said:
“Dementia isn’t an inevitable part of ageing. Research shows that making healthy choices throughout your life can lower your risk. Even small changes can have a real impact on your brain health. This Dementia Action Week, we’re encouraging everyone to think about what steps they can take.”
Croydon Health Charity, the NHS Trust’s dedicated charity will also be fundraising to create a new Dementia sensory garden at Croydon University Hospital, helping to provide a calming outdoor space for patients with dementia and their families. Find out more here.
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon, has made a firm commitment in his business plan to ensure that Croydon is a dementia-friendly borough. He said:
“Croydon is proud to support Dementia Action Week and raise awareness of how we can all protect our health as we age. Together, through the delivery of the borough’s first joint dementia strategy, health and care partners are helping to tackle issues faced by people living with the condition, and keep people healthier for longer.”
Susan Underhill, Programmes Director at Age UK Croydon, said:
“We are encouraging people in Croydon to support Dementia Action Week and take part in activities while learning about the condition and how to look after their brain health. We are continuing to make good progress with delivering the promises made in our dementia strategy and supporting residents to live more fulfilling and healthier lives.”