Major campaign targets people worried about their memory

The campaign stresses the importance of seeking help if they are worried about their own memory or that of someone close to them. Currently only a third of people with dementia ever receive a formal diagnosis. Research shows that many people concerned about memory problems put off going to see their GP. The campaign will involve leaflets and posters being sent to 10,000 GP surgeries across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Ruth Sutherland, Interim Chief Executive of Alzheimer's Society, says,

'We want people to know that everyone gets a little forgetful from time to time, but when memory loss starts to interfere with daily life it is important to get it checked out as soon as possible.  Memory loss can be a symptom of dementia, along with confusion and mood changes. The sooner people seek help the sooner they can start living their lives to the full.'

The initiative, called Worried about your memory? follows a successful campaign in 2009 which reached 80,000 people after leaflets were delivered to GPs across the country. Of the people who requested further information, one in five went on to get a diagnosis.

The new materials have been re-designed and encourage people to seek help without delay if they have concerns. To support the leaflet campaign in GP surgeries, Alzheimer's Society will be targeting those most at risk of dementia, such as people with high blood pressure, cholesterol or who have had a stroke.

Ruth Sutherland adds,

'This campaign is designed to improve the shockingly low diagnosis rates of dementia in the UK. Alzheimer's Society is on hand to support anyone going through this worrying time and can offer support through our services across the country, which include a national helpline.'

Further Information

• Worried about your memory information
• Diagnosis information
• National dementia helpline