The NHS is encouraging families to be vigilant about the signs of dementia in elderly relatives during the festive season. As families gather to celebrate, health officials believe this is an ideal time to observe any subtle changes in memory, behavior, or mood that could indicate the onset of the condition.
According to NHS England, dementia claims approximately 76,000 lives each year, making it the leading cause of death in the UK. The call for awareness coincides with a collaboration between the Daily Mail and the Alzheimer’s Society in a campaign named “Defeating Dementia.” This initiative aims to enhance understanding of the disease, promote early diagnosis, and improve care and research efforts.
Recognizing Early Symptoms
Dr. Jeremy Isaacs, clinical director for dementia at NHS England, emphasized the significance of family interactions during the holidays. Activities like opening gifts or sharing meals may reveal early signs of dementia. Symptoms to watch for include difficulty following conversations, confusion regarding time and place, and emotional changes such as irritability.
“Not being able to follow a much-loved family recipe or repeating stories could be a sign,” said Dr. Isaacs.
As of now, approximately 512,525 people in the UK have received a formal dementia diagnosis, a slight increase from 499,068 reported a year prior. Despite this progress, health officials acknowledge that the rates of diagnosis suffered during the COVID-19 pandemic and have yet to recover fully.
The NHS is actively working to improve diagnosis rates, particularly among individuals residing in care homes. Collaborations with universities and charitable organizations aim to develop faster and more effective methods for diagnosing dementia and providing support.
Checklist for Families
Families are encouraged to use a checklist of symptoms to help identify potential signs of dementia before consulting a healthcare professional. Spending time together during the holidays often highlights changes in behavior that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Dr. Tim Beanland from the Alzheimer’s Society remarked, “Subtle shifts in behavior or abilities may be more noticeable during these moments and, for some families, can be the first time they recognize signs of dementia.”
As the festive season approaches, the NHS urges families to engage in meaningful conversations and observations that could lead to early identification and intervention for dementia.
For confidential advice, individuals can contact the Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Support Line at 0333 150 3456. This resource can assist families in navigating their concerns and seeking appropriate guidance.
