Dementia Action Week 2023

One in three people born in the UK this year will develop dementia in their lifetime.

In Brighton & Hove, there are around 2,800 people living with dementia and 210 with young onset dementia.

It’s difficult to know the exact number, but we do know there are more people living with dementia than ever before, and it’s predicted this number will continue to grow over the next few decades.

Every year the Alzheimer's Society's run Dementia Action Week to raise awareness of dementia. This year’s campaign runs from 15-21 May and is focusing on diagnosis, to encourage people who are concerned that they or someone they know may be experiencing dementia symptoms to seek further help.

Early diagnosis is important

The biggest barrier to people seeking a dementia diagnosis is the misconception that symptoms like memory loss are a sign of normal ageing.

Becoming forgetful doesn't always mean you have dementia. But it's always better to know and get the right support. 

If you or a loved one is experiencing significant memory loss, confusion, language difficulties or behaviour changes that are affecting your daily life, it could be a sign of something more serious. 

Advice and support are available to help you understand if your symptoms are related to dementia and what to do next. The earlier you get diagnosed, the sooner you can get the support you need.

Care and support is available

Thousands of people are living with undiagnosed dementia and don’t have access to the vital care and support they need.

If you are worried about memory loss, confusion, language difficulties or behaviour changes, speak to your GP. They may then want to discuss a referral to the Brighton & Hove Memory Assessment Service who will provide assessment, diagnosis, treatment, support and advice. They’ll work with you to create a tailored care plan that works for you and your loved ones.

Jason Willcox, of Brighton & Hove Memory Assessment Service, said: “If you’re worried at all, the best thing to do is to get a diagnosis so you can access treatment and support. The earlier you get diagnosed, the easier it is to plan your care and focus on what matters most to you.

“Our Memory Assessment Service provides care and support that will help you to live well with dementia and includes your loved ones.

“Experiencing cognitive impairment and memory issues, can be a scary time and our memory assessment service ensures we go on this journey together and support you and those you care for every step of the way.”

More information or support

• Find out more about dementia and how to get a diagnosis on our dementia support web page. 
• Order a Brighton & Hove dementia care pathway leaflet from our public health team.
• Get information about local services and support from Ageing Well Brighton & Hove.
• See national information, including a symptoms checklist for you to complete and show to your GP, from The Alzheimer’s Society. 
• Books on dementia are also available from your local library.

Join others this Dementia Action Week

Throughout the week there are events across the city to support people living with dementia and their loved ones.

Events include opportunities to get involved with exercise, music and gardening, and chances for individuals or carers to meet others. Many of these also run regularly throughout the year.

Have a look at the full list of local events for Dementia Action Week.

Age and Dementia Friendly city

We want Brighton & Hove to be an age and dementia friendly city. Somewhere that’s a great place for everyone to grow older and where those living with dementia, and their loved ones are an active part of their city.

Find out how you can become a Dementia Friend or take a look at our Age and Dementia Friendly Business recognition scheme which encourages organisations to take a few simple steps to become more welcoming to older people and people living with dementia.