Dementia awareness campaign launched in East Sussex

Over the next three months, the awareness campaign will target villages, towns and cities across East Sussex – including activities in Bexhill, Hastings, Eastbourne and Lewes – looking to promote the benefits of an early diagnosis and provide information about what help is available to people living in the county. At present, only 38% of people with dementia in East Sussex have a formal diagnosis.

New recruit to Alzheimer’s Society, Esther Watts, Information Worker for East Sussex, will play a key role in delivering this message to those who are living with undiagnosed dementia, as well as to people who may have a loved one with symptoms. Esther said: 

'People who are experiencing problems with their memory may not know where to turn for help. An early diagnosis is the key to getting the advice that people with dementia want and need.  If memory problems are affecting your everyday life, it’s important that you go to the GP so they can refer you to the Memory Assessment Service. 

My job is to raise awareness about the support available to people affected by dementia in East Sussex. Over the coming months, I will be contacting over-55s groups, local MPs, councillors and the general public to raise awareness of dementia and tell them about the services we offer.  I will also be distributing posters and leaflets to GP surgeries, dentists, pharmacies, libraries, post offices, Citizens Advice Bureaux and council offices so people know who to contact for help.'

The awareness initiative is part of the new East Sussex Memory Assessment Service (MAS), which was launched in October 2012. The service has been developed to act as a single point for routine referral for all people with suspected dementia. Those who go on to receive a diagnosis of the condition can then be referred on to an Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Adviser to offer additional support. 

Support Services Manager for East Sussex, Sara Knight said:

'It is a shocking that under half of people with dementia ever receive a diagnosis. This awareness initiative will play a crucial role in the campaign to improve diagnosis rates in East Sussex. Early diagnosis is important as it helps those affected to maintain independence and regain control of their lives, as well as giving access to support and potential treatments. Understanding that there is a medical reason for symptoms also gives people a chance to plan for the future.'

Alzheimer's Society encourages anyone who is worried about their memory, or that of someone they know, to book an appointment with their GP. For more information, visit: alzheimers.org.uk/memoryworry

• Find out more by visiting the dementia map