Alzheimer's Society Podcast: Recent Episodes
Alzheimer's Society
We’re the UK’s leading dementia charity. We provide information and support, improve care, fund research, and create lasting change for people affected by dementia
In this episode, we chat with dementia campaigner John Amos. He has been involved with all sorts of campaign work with Alzheimer’s Society since caring for his late wife Lesley.You can visit alzheimers.org.uk/publications for our range of publications and factsheets designed to support and inform anyone affected by dementia.
In this episode, we chat with Katherine from the Wales-based charity Forget-me-not Chorus.It creates safe spaces where people affected by dementia can experience the joy and friendship of singing in a choir. You can visit alzheimers.org.uk/publications for our range of publications and factsheets designed to support and inform anyone affected by dementia.For personalised information and advice, call our Dementia support line on 0333 150 3456, or for Welsh speakers call 03300 947 400.To find out more about Forget-me-not Chorus, visit https://forgetmenotchorus.com
In this episode, we chat with John who has discovered a new passion for broadcasting since his diagnosis with young-onset dementia.You can visit alzheimers.org.uk/publications for our range of publications and factsheets designed to support and inform anyone affected by dementia.For personalised information and advice, call our Dementia support line on 0333 150 3456, or for Welsh speakers call 03300 947 400.
In this episode, we meet the people behind Dementia Disco, a Stockport charity that organises discos for people affected by dementia.You can visit alzheimers.org.uk/publications for our range of publications and factsheets designed to support and inform anyone affected by dementia.For personalised information and advice, call our Dementia support line on 0333 150 3456, or for Welsh speakers call 03300 947 400.
In this episode, we chat with two winners from our eighth poetry competition. Robin, winner of our 'From the heart' category talks about his emotional poem 'Dementia Caring', which is about caring for his late wife Sheila. And Kathy, winner of our 'Way with words' category, chats about how her dad Bob inspired her poem 'Is it Time to Go?'.You can visit alzheimers.org.uk/publications for our range of publications and factsheets designed to support and inform anyone affected by dementia.For personalised information and advice, call our Dementia support line on 0333 150 3456, or for Welsh speakers call 03300 947 400.
*Content warning: this episode features references to suicidal thoughts.In this episode, we chat with Steve in Fermanagh about living with young-onset Alzheimer’s disease.After his diagnosis, Steve had to retire from his beloved job as a long-distance truck driver. But he's found new sources of joy, and the strength and confidence to advocate for other people living with dementia. You can visit alzheimers.org.uk/publications for our range of publications and factsheets designed to support and inform anyone affected by dementia.For personalised information and advice, call our Dementia support line on 0333 150 3456, or for Welsh speakers call 03300 947 400.
In this episode of the Dementia together podcast, we learn about the UK's first dementia-friendly railway line.The Bentham Line runs from the hubbub of Leeds to the seaside resort of Morecambe, past miles of incredible scenery. Yet it's no quaint heritage ride, but a fully functioning rail link.We meet the people who've been making the experience of travelling by rail better for people affected by dementia, and the wonderful opportunities this has created.You can visit alzheimers.org.uk/publications for our range of publications designed to support and inform anyone affected by dementia.For personalised information and advice, call our Dementia Support Line on 0333 150 3456, or for Welsh speakers call 03300 947 400.
This episode is all about Dementia’s Got Talent, a very special show that took place at the Darlington Hippodrome earlier in 2025 and featured performers living with dementia. We visited the Darlington Hippodrome to meet the people behind the show and one of its stars, rookie comedian Maureen Kay.You can visit alzheimers.org.uk/publications for our range of publications and factsheets designed to support and inform anyone affected by dementia.For personalised information and advice, call our Dementia support line on 0333 150 3456, or for Welsh speakers call 03300 947 400.
In this episode of the Dementia together podcast we chat with Jitendra Gupta in Bradford about finding confidence after his dementia diagnosis.When Jitendra first received the news he had Alzheimer's disease, he felt pessimistic about the future. But with the support of his family, friends and other networks, including Alzheimer's Society, Jitendra has regained enjoyment in life. And he's not given up on his dream to become a lawyer.Visit alzheimers.org.uk/publications for our range of publications and factsheets designed to support and inform anyone affected by dementia. For personalised information and advice, call our Dementia support line on 0333 150 3456, or for Welsh speakers call 03300 947 400.
Our latest Dementia together podcast is all about enjoyable and engaging activities for people with dementia.First, we speak with Emma Hutchin, who after caring for her Nan Doris was inspired to change careers. She left the teaching profession to work with people with dementia as a Drawing and Talking practitioner. And we also chat with Angelo Makri, Alzheimer’s Society Senior Knowledge Officer for Wellbeing who gives us the lowdown on choosing activities. You can visit alzheimers.org.uk/publications for our range of publications and factsheets designed to support and inform anyone affected by dementia. To learn more about Drawing and Talking visit https://drawingandtalking.comFor personalised information and advice, call our Dementia support line on 0333 150 3456, or for Welsh speakers call 03300 947 400.
For our latest Dementia together podcast, we spoke to three people involved in a unique heritage project in Wales. Museums Inspiring Memories is a partnership between Amgueddfa Cymru and Alzheimer’s Society Cymru, funded by the National Lottery Community Fund. Its aim is to help museums in Wales be more inclusive and involving. You can visit alzheimers.org.uk/publications for our range of publications and factsheets designed to support and inform anyone affected by dementia.For personalised information and advice, call our Dementia support line on 0333 150 3456, or for Welsh speakers call 03300 947 400.
For our latest Dementia together podcast we spoke to Dawn Davies in Swansea.Around two years ago, Dawn was diagnosed with young-onset Alzheimer’s.It came as a massive shock and Dawn retreated from the world, even the idea of leaving the house terrified her. But with support from her family and the Dementia Hwb in Swansea’s Quadrant Shopping Centre, Dawn turned things around.Dawn now works at the Hwb, helping others deal with a dementia diagnosis.You can visit alzheimers.org.uk/publications for our range of publications and factsheets designed to support and inform anyone affected by dementia.For personalised information and advice, call our Dementia support line on 0333 150 3456, or for Welsh speakers call 03300 947 400.
For our latest Dementia together podcast we spoke to Philip Angrave, in Kent. Phil worked in the NHS for over 40 years and was a lecturer for more than 20 years, teaching undergraduate nurses and doctors. Phil decided to step back from work following a diagnosis of Lewy body dementia. He's now using his experience for a different purpose – calling on his local decision-makers to make dementia a priority in his area.Listen to hear how Phil is campaigning for change and his top tips for others who want to campaign.Also in this episode, Kath Falconer, National Influencing Officer at Alzheimer's Society, explains why campaigners like Phil are so important.Your donations play a vital role in ensuring people affected by dementia are aware of the services offered by Alzheimer’s Society, especially in what is a difficult time for everyone. To donate, visit alzheimers.org.uk/give or call 0330 333 0804.
For our latest Dementia together podcast we spoke to Teresa Davies, in north-east Wales.Just over a decade ago, Teresa was diagnosed with young-onset Alzheimer’s. This came as a shock and left the usually positive Teresa in a dark place. She says she ‘didn’t know how to cope’ after her diagnosis and wasn’t given the right support. But a chance meeting turned things around and helped Teresa to find a new purpose. She now lives as well as she can with dementia and supports others affected by the condition.You can visit alzheimers.org.uk/publications for our range of publications and factsheets designed to support and inform anyone affected by dementia. For personalised information and advice, call our Dementia support line on 0333 150 3456, or for Welsh speakers call 03300 947 400.
For our latest Dementia together podcast we spoke to brothers Adam and Neil Joesbury and their dad Bob, in Birmingham. Bob has vascular dementia and the family works together to support each other.Adam has a learning disability and cares for Bob. This means Neil can continue to go to work and all three can be independent.At first, it was difficult to find the right support for Adam. He knew something was wrong with his dad, but found it difficult to understand.This changed when a dementia adviser from Alzheimer's Society gave him the support he needed.Since then, Adam has been using his voice to try to change things for the better for carers with a learning disability – he doesn’t want anyone to face the same challenges he did. Your donations play a vital role in ensuring people affected by dementia are aware of the services offered by Alzheimer’s Society, especially in what is a difficult time for everyone. To donate, visit alzheimers.org.uk/give or call 0330 333 0804.
For our latest Dementia together podcast we spoke to retired nurse and youth worker Anne Hoad in Deal, Kent.Anne was diagnosed with a rare form of dementia called posterior cortical atrophy (PCA) in 2021. Anne's PCA was missed by her GP at first. They initially prescribed her anti-depressants. After speaking to friends who had experienced depression, Anne's husband Tony realised that her symptoms were quite different. They returned to Anne's GP and were able to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment.Anne and Tony tell us how life has changed following this diagnosis and how they cope with the daily challenges of living with a rare dementia.Your donations play a vital role in ensuring people affected by dementia are aware of the services offered by Alzheimer’s Society, especially in what is a difficult time for everyone. To donate, visit alzheimers.org.uk/give or call 0330 333 0804.
For our latest Dementia together podcast we spoke to retired teacher Nellie Suffolk, aged 82, in Bristol. Nellie was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease around six years ago. This diagnosis came as a shock because Nellie had put her symptoms down to getting older.Nellie was born in Zambia when it was still under British rule and was one of the few girls to complete primary education at the time. She spent her life in education, teaching and studying across the UK and in several African nations. Nellie tells us how she remains as independent and active as she can following her diagnosis.Your donations play a vital role in ensuring people affected by dementia are aware of the services offered by Alzheimer’s Society, especially in what is a difficult time for everyone. To donate, visit alzheimers.org.uk/give or call 0330 333 0804.
For our latest Dementia together podcast we spoke to Rashmi Paun, aged 77, in Brighton. Rashmi, a former physics teacher, initially put his memory problems down to age but was later diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.
Rashmi had always had a way with numbers, but his wife Maggie soon had to take on more daily tasks, including the couple's finances.
Maggie says it was difficult to navigate life after a diagnosis, with 'no clear roadmap', and she is grateful for support from local groups and charities.
Listen to find out more about Rashmi and Maggie's experience.
Your donations play a vital role in ensuring people affected by dementia are aware of the services offered by Alzheimer’s Society, especially in what is a difficult time for everyone. To donate, visit alzheimers.org.uk/give or call 0330 333 0804.
Episode 19: Gardening, biodiversity and dementia - Green team special by Alzheimer's Society
As part of activities being held to mark our 'Celebration of Involvement' throughout July at Alzheimer's Society, Trevor Salomon (Co-Chair of the Lived Experience Advisory Panel) and Simon Lord (Head of Innovation)reflect on how people affected by dementia have been involved with the Longitude Prize.
From tasks undertaken to adjustments made to ensure the LEAP feel empowered and supported, this honest conversation discusses both the real life challenges and benefits of involving people with lived experience of dementia in projects, as well as advice for anyone looking to do the same.
For our latest Dementia together podcast we spoke to Gill Taylor, aged 70, in County Durham. Gill was diagnosed with young-onset Alzheimer’s when she was 58. At the time, she says she 'never even considered' that she could have dementia, because of her age.
Contrary to her initial diagnosis, Gill has now been told she may have a rarer type of dementia. She’s undergoing more tests to find out.
A lack of local activities for people affected by dementia prompted Gill to start an arts group called Let’s Meet Up and she tells us more about the importance of the group.
Your donations play a vital role in ensuring people affected by dementia are aware of the services offered by Alzheimer’s Society, especially in what is a difficult time for everyone. To donate, visit alzheimers.org.uk/give or call 0330 333 0804.
In this episode we hear from Debs Ogden, Dementia Adviser, and Pete Greaves, Legacy Partnerships Officer, as they share their stories of being involved in our Bespoke events - Trek26 and Memory Walk. Debs, who trekked 13 miles for the Society last year, shares what it was about Trek26 that made her want to sign up for a second year! Whilst Pete shares his first experience of volunteering at Memory Walk, the emotion of witnessing the effort people put in to remembering loved ones, and the comradery with fellow volunteers.
For our latest Dementia together podcast we spoke to Warren Berman, aged 70, in Leeds. He was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia in 2019 – the same type of dementia as Bruce Willis.Warren's neighbours were the first to notice his dementia symptoms. He has seen mental health issues from both sides, having experienced them himself and through supporting others. His happy childhood memories have remained with him and he believes staying active is the key to living well with dementia. Your donations play a vital role in ensuring people affected by dementia are aware of the services offered by Alzheimer’s Society, especially in what is a difficult time for everyone. To donate, visit alzheimers.org.uk/give or call 0330 333 0804.
Handling money can be difficult for many, but for people with dementia, financial mistakes can be devastatingly costly. New banking app and debit card Sibstar is designed specifically to help people affected by dementia remain financially independent for longer.Sonam Zamir, Innovation Impact and Communication Specialist, speaks to Sibstar Co-Founder and CEO Jayne Sibley about the inspiration behind this innovative new banking app and how our Accelerator Programme helped bring this product to life. Plus, discover how you could win a luxury shopping trip courtesy of Sibstar and Mastercard!
For our latest Dementia together podcast we spoke to Ananga Moonesinghe, aged 76, in Luton, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2019.Ananga sees dementia as 'a different journey' and is a strong advocate for people with a dementia diagnosis. He recently helped to deliver an open letter - signed by 36,000 people - to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Ananga and his wife Joanna also tell the story of how they met during his time in the RAF.Your donations play a vital role in ensuring people affected by dementia are aware of the services offered by Alzheimer’s Society, especially in what is a difficult time for everyone. To donate, visit alzheimers.org.uk/give or call 0330 333 0804.
For our latest Dementia together podcast we spoke to Andy Paul in Deeside, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2019, aged just 60.Andy, who remains an avid Leeds United fan, has valued setting some important things in place for the future, such as a will and power of attorney, while also being focused on enjoying the present. He’s keen to raise awareness, having had to address stigma over his diagnosis.Your donations play a vital role in ensuring people affected by dementia are aware of the services offered by Alzheimer’s Society, especially in what is a difficult time for everyone. To donate, visit alzheimers.org.uk/give or call 0330 333 0804.
For our latest Dementia together podcast we spoke to Kath Sutherland, who is 82, lives in Wigan and has dementia. Kath tells us about making a new home for herself at Belong Wigan, a care village in Greater Manchester. She also discusses her earlier life in Liverpool and Australia, the impact dementia has had on many relatives, and life since her own diagnosis.Your donations play a vital role in ensuring people affected by dementia are aware of the services offered by Alzheimer’s Society, especially in what is a difficult time for everyone. To donate, visit alzheimers.org.uk/give or call 0330 333 0804.
For our latest Dementia together podcast we spoke to Shirley Williams, who is 80, lives in Brighton, and has Alzheimer’s.
Shirley tells us about coming from British Guyana to England in the early 1960s, to work as a nurse. She also discusses her dementia diagnosis, and how she is doing all she can to keep her mind as sharp as possible, while refusing to let dementia spoil her life.
Your donations play a vital role in ensuring people affected by dementia are aware of the services offered by Alzheimer’s Society, especially in what is a difficult time for everyone. To donate, visit alzheimers.org.uk/give or call 0330 333 0804.
For our latest Dementia together podcast we spoke to Michael Keenan, who is 62, lives in Omagh in Northern Ireland, and has young-onset Alzheimer’s. We chatted to Michael twice – in mid-2021 and early 2022 – to find out more about his life and the challenges he’s been facing during the pandemic. Despite enduring a difficult time, Michael believes that better days aren’t too far away and can’t wait to get back involved.
Your donations play a vital role in ensuring people affected by dementia are aware of the services offered by Alzheimer’s Society, especially in what is a difficult time for everyone. To donate, visit alzheimers.org.uk/give or call 0330 333 0804.
For our latest Dementia together podcast we spoke to Pete Middleton, who is 67 and lives with his wife Pam near Kettering in the East Midlands. Pete was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in January 2019, which forced him into early retirement. As Pete explains, he bounced back by using his experiences of dementia to support the work of Alzheimer’s Society, even though some of this has been disrupted, like so much else, by the COVID pandemic.
When you’re caring for a person with dementia it can help you to find the right support. This will help you to live well. This track summarises some of the key ways that carers can get support.
Communicating together can become more difficult over time, as the person’s dementia gets worse. This track summarises tips for carers to help them communicate clearly and calmly.
Having dementia doesn’t mean you should feel ill or low. You should see the doctor if you’re feeling unwell. Being ill can make dementia worse. Being active can help you to stay independent and keep in touch with other people.
As we hopefully continue to emerge from the Covid pandemic, many of us will be looking forward to returning to something resembling normal life. But for Michael Andrews that may no longer be possible. Michael is 61 and has a rarer form of dementia called posterior cortical atrophy, also known as PCA. Hear about his ongoing attempts to navigate the challenges of the pandemic and the changes he’s experiencing in himself.
Having dementia doesn’t mean you need to stop doing the things you enjoy. This track has tips that can make it easier to live with memory loss.
Planning ahead means sorting out things like money, wills and powers of attorney. This track explains some of the ways you can plan ahead if you're affected by dementia.
When you have dementia, it helps to find the right support. This will help you to live well. This track summarises some of the main sources of support for people with dementia.
There is no cure for dementia yet. Some symptoms can be treated with drugs. This track summarises the main drug treatments for dementia.
There is no cure for dementia yet. There are ways of treating some symptoms without using drugs. This track summarises the main non-drug treatments for dementia.
This track summarises the important information you might need to know about the signs and symptoms of dementia. It signposts to more detailed information, if you need more.
This track summarises the important information you might need to know about dementia. It signposts to more detailed information, if you need more.
Alzheimer's Society's helpsheets are short and simplified summaries of our most popular information. Each helpsheet covers a single topic. There are ten topics in total. We’ll upload the audio versions for a couple of topics a week.
If you'd like to know more about a topic, each helpsheet mentions our factsheets or booklets, and their codes. These have more detail and information in them. Make a note of the title and code. You can find them on our full list of publications: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/publications-factsheets/full-list
With the pandemic ongoing, our Dementia together podcast interviews continue to take place by video call. In early November we spoke to 82-year-old Musharraff Ali, who has Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia, to hear about his experiences of living with the condition. As you’ll hear, the fact that Musharraff was prepared to discuss his dementia so openly shows just how far he has come since his diagnosis in 2014.
For the latest episode of our podcast, we speak by video call to Vesna, who has vascular dementia. Vesna lives in Bromley in south east London, but was raised in the care system in Manchester. She tells us about the challenges of her early life, the support she’s had during the coronavirus pandemic, and how she refuses to be defined by her dementia diagnosis.
The coronavirus lockdown has paused many activities that have helped Barney Thompson come to terms with having dementia with Lewy bodies. We spoke to Barney, who lives in Northern Ireland, by video call over a period of months, as he discussed dementia, driving, Alzheimer’s Society support and his attempts to help others who have a diagnosis.
Diagnosed with dementia while still in her 40s, Amanda Quinn wants others to know they have a voice.
Having feared the worst after his dementia diagnosis, Masood Qureshi is now focused on changing people’s perceptions.
Celine Quinn faces up to dementia with the support of her faith, family and Alzheimer’s Society.
Stunned by her dementia diagnosis, Margaret Willis had to battle her fears to reach a point of acceptance.
After initial denial and dread about her dementia diagnosis, Sue Strachan’s awareness raising now includes appearing in a new TV series.
Living in a remote spot, Pam Wood appreciates her continued connections with other people. Gareth Bracken meets a woman with dementia focusing on what each day brings.
As he tackles both bereavement and dementia, Nicky Stephens remains determined to maintain an active lifestyle. Gareth Bracken meets a man who prefers support to sympathy.
When people are denied basic human rights, Nigel Hullah believes in the power of a shared voice. Gareth Bracken meets a man with dementia who wants everyone to have their say.
Amid some difficult days since his dementia diagnosis, Elmar has found support in a place where he knows he’s not being judged. Gareth Bracken meets a man benefitting from a welcoming group.
Used to helping others, Kenrick Goppy is learning to accept that he’s the one who needs support now. Gareth Bracken meets a man adapting to the impact of dementia.
After a dementia diagnosis that felt like a ‘death sentence’, Chris Maddocks is fighting back. Gareth Bracken meets a woman who has vowed to do what she can while she can.
Despite enduring a series of health and other problems, Abdul-Fady Othman refuses to feel sorry for himself. Gareth Bracken from Dementia together magazine went to meet Abdul-Fady, who takes strength from supporting others.
Diagnosed with a rare form of dementia, Martin Anderton has stayed positive with the help of an Alzheimer’s Society volunteer. Gareth Bracken from Living with dementia magazine meets a man thriving with support from Side by Side.
Avril Staunton is defying expectations following her dementia diagnosis. She's using the same drive and determination that helped her excel in her medical career to take on negative perceptions. Gareth Bracken from Living with dementia magazine meets a woman refusing to be labelled.
If you have recently been told you have dementia, this guide is for you. It will help you to understand more about dementia and the treatments, support and services that are available. It includes information about how you can live as well as possible with dementia, and about making plans for the future.
If you have recently been told you have dementia, this guide is for you. It will help you to understand more about dementia and the treatments, support and services that are available. It includes information about how you can live as well as possible with dementia, and about making plans for the future.
If you have recently been told you have dementia, this guide is for you. It will help you to understand more about dementia and the treatments, support and services that are available. It includes information about how you can live as well as possible with dementia, and about making plans for the future.
If you have recently been told you have dementia, this guide is for you. It will help you to understand more about dementia and the treatments, support and services that are available. It includes information about how you can live as well as possible with dementia, and about making plans for the future.
If you have recently been told you have dementia, this guide is for you. It will help you to understand more about dementia and the treatments, support and services that are available. It includes information about how you can live as well as possible with dementia, and about making plans for the future.
If you have recently been told you have dementia, this guide is for you. It will help you to understand more about dementia and the treatments, support and services that are available. It includes information about how you can live as well as possible with dementia, and about making plans for the future.
If you have recently been told you have dementia, this guide is for you. It will help you to understand more about dementia and the treatments, support and services that are available. It includes information about how you can live as well as possible with dementia, and about making plans for the future.
If you have recently been told you have dementia, this guide is for you. It will help you to understand more about dementia and the treatments, support and services that are available. It includes information about how you can live as well as possible with dementia, and about making plans for the future.
If you have recently been told you have dementia, this guide is for you. It will help you to understand more about dementia and the treatments, support and services that are available. It includes information about how you can live as well as possible with dementia, and about making plans for the future.
If you have recently been told you have dementia, this guide is for you. It will help you to understand more about dementia and the treatments, support and services that are available. It includes information about how you can live as well as possible with dementia, and about making plans for the future.
If you have recently been told you have dementia, this guide is for you. It will help you to understand more about dementia and the treatments, support and services that are available. It includes information about how you can live as well as possible with dementia, and about making plans for the future.
If you have recently been told you have dementia, this guide is for you. It will help you to understand more about dementia and the treatments, support and services that are available. It includes information about how you can live as well as possible with dementia, and about making plans for the future.
If you have recently been told you have dementia, this guide is for you. It will help you to understand more about dementia and the treatments, support and services that are available. It includes information about how you can live as well as possible with dementia, and about making plans for the future.
Angry at the unfair treatment faced by many people with dementia, Alex Preston is determined to bring about change. Gareth Bracken meets a man standing up for dementia rights.
Believing that the opinions of people with dementia are often overlooked, Arthur Mars has embraced the opportunity to make himself heard.
Gareth Bracken reads an article about a man who is influencing the world around him.
Despite having an inherited form of dementia that has seen three relatives die young, Victoria Huntley is determined to project a positive message.
My name is Gareth Bracken, and I'm reading an article about a woman making the most of life.
Having faced both HIV and dementia alone, Patrick Ettenes doesn’t want others to do the same.
My name’s Gareth Bracken and I’m reading an article about a man casting attention onto a neglected area.
As if having dementia wasn’t enough, many people also face unfair treatment. My name’s Gareth Bracken and I’m reading an article about an Alzheimer’s Society ambassador who is choosing her battles to secure her and others’ rights.
After a dementia diagnosis, still being able to enjoy your favourite activities makes a big difference. Gareth Bracken, reads an article by Luke Bishop about a man who is staying active with the support of a Side by Side volunteer.
Despite being unable to access all of his previous wide-ranging knowledge, Abdus Shahid remains sure of his achievements. Gareth Bracken meets a business and family man who retains a strong identity.
A local group can provide welcome support. Gareth Bracken reads an article written by Luke Bishop, about a man from Merseyside who overcame many anxieties before meeting other people with dementia.
With the devolved elections in Wales and Northern Ireland just days away, hear the thoughts of our teams in Cardiff and Belfast on what the major parties are saying about dementia. We also outline the campaigns we’ve been running – https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/20000reasons in Northern Ireland and https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/45000reasons in Wales – to ensure dementia is on the politicians’ radar as they ask for your vote, and tell you about how to get involved.
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal tool that allows you to appoint someone to make certain decisions on your behalf. A health and welfare LPA allows the attorney to make decisions on your behalf about your health and welfare, if there comes a time when you are unable to make these decisions for yourself. In this edition of the podcast we discuss Health and Welfare LPA and the Your answers to the question 'What to do if a person with dementia leave a shop without paying for goods?'.
Hospital discharge is the term used when a person leaves hospital once they are sufficiently recovered. People with dementia usually need further long-term help after leaving hospital, and some may move into a care home. Others need support in their own home or in the home of a relative or friend. In this edition of the podcast we discuss the hospital discharge process and NHS continuing healthcare.
If health professionals think that a person with dementia is behaving in a way that places their health at risk or is a danger to themselves or others, they can be detained in hospital under section 2 of the Mental Health Act so that they can be assessed. This process is often known as ‘sectioning’ or 'being sectioned' and is often a challenging time for the person with dementia and their families. As the term sectioning often has negative connotations in this podcast we will be referring to the process of placing someone under a section of the Mental Health act.
In this edition of the podcast Hannah speask to Helpline Adviser Emma about the Mental Health Act, guardianship and after-care services.
Criminal gangs target older people by phone, letter and email. Common cons include bogus foreign lotteries, miracle health cures, fake prize draw wins and investment opportunities. In this edition of the podcast Helpline Coordinator Angelo talks about how people with dementia can fall prey to these types of scams, how to report them and what can be done to prevent them happening.
For the first time ever, Alzheimer’s Society is running an advertising campaign to make people more aware of the Society and how we can support people affected by dementia.
In this edition of the podcast we hear from Ray Castleton, the actor who portrayed the Grandfather character in our new commercial he tells us about his personal experience of dementia, what it was like on set and the challenges of playing someone with the condition.
Join dementia research is a new service which allows people to register their interest in taking part in dementia research. It helps people with dementia, their carers, or anyone interested in dementia research to be matched to studies taking place in their area.
Many people with dementia want to live at home for as long as possible. Often, this is with support from others. However, it can be difficult managing everyday situations if you have dementia, particularly as the dementia progresses and you get older.
In this edition of the podcast Helpline adviser Colette talks about some of the safety issues faced by people with dementia at home and ways to deal with them.
The word dementia describes a set of symptoms that may include memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problem-solving or language. Dementia is caused when the brain is damaged by diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease or a series of strokes.
In this episode of the podcast Hannah speaks to helpline supervisor Kim about the progression of the different types of dementia.
Please note that towards the end of this podcast we discuss the later stages of dementia which might be upsetting for some listeners.
Receiving professional care in a hospital or care home can be stressful, especially for people living with dementia.
In this episode of the podcast we speak to Helpline Adviser Sandra about ‘This is me’ a helpful resource for people with dementia who are receiving professional care. We talk about how for a professional, knowing a little bit more about someone can make it easier to take a person centered approach to care and make a person’s stay in a hospital or care home more pleasant.
As a person's dementia progresses, they will need more help with everyday activities such as washing and bathing. For most adults, washing is a personal and private activity and so it can be hard to adjust to this change. In this episode of the podcast we discuss helping a person with dementia with personal care.
Difficulties with using the toilet, accidents and incontinence can all be problems for people with dementia, particularly as the condition progresses. These problems can be upsetting for the person and for those around them. In this episode of the podcast we talk about dealing with toilet problems and a incontinence as well as the changing dynamics for carers when the needs of a person with dementia increase.
The Mental Capacity Act 2005 is a law that protects and supports people who do not have the ability to make decisions for themselves. This could be due to a learning disability, or a mental health problem or condition such as dementia. In this edition of the podcast we look at how the act can affect the lives of those living with dementia.
When a loved one is diagnosed with dementia it is common for those closest to them to feel isolated and in need of some extra support and guidance. In this edition of the podcast I speak to Jan who discovered the benefits of an online forum when she signed up to Talking Point soon after her husband's diagnosis.
A Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal tool that allows you to appoint someone to make decisions about your finances and or health and welfare when you are no longer able to. In this edition of the podcast I speak to Alzheimer's Society information officer Sam about what a Lasting Power of Attorney is and why you might consider making one.
When a person with dementia is no longer able to manage their own finances, there are several things they can do to ensure they are well taken care of. In this edition of the podcast we explain Enduring Power of Attorney, the processes involved in Northern Ireland.
There are a number of things you can do to plan for your care in the future. In this edition of the podcast we look at advanced decisions, advanced statements and making your care wishes known ahead of time
Someone who is diagnosed with dementia may be able to continue driving for some time. However, they must fulfil certain legal requirements. As the person's dementia progresses, they will reach a point where they can no longer drive safely and must stop driving. Many people find this very difficult to accept. In this episode of the podcast I speak to National Dementia Helpline advisor Angelo about the legal process and how to deal with the sometimes difficult situation.
It's not uncommon for people to not want to go to the doctor. They may think there is nothing wrong or they may be aware of a problem but want it to go away. Unfortunately the problem won't go away and you may want to help your relative visit the doctor to find out what the problem is. In this edition of the podcast we talk about getting a relative to visit the doctor.