Dementia is a term used to describe a collection of symptoms including memory loss, problems with reasoning, perception and communication skills. It can also lead to a reduction in a person’s ability to carry out routine activities such as washing, dressing and cooking.

The number of people estimated to be living with dementia globally is 50 million. In the UK, it is estimated that around 850,000 people have dementia.

Every person is unique and dementia affects people differently - no two people will have symptoms that develop in exactly the same way. An individual's personality, general health and social situation are all important factors in determining the impact of dementia on him or her.

For more information please visit the Public Health England website.

Symptoms may vary between Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia, but there are broad similarities between them all. The most common signs are memory loss and the loss of practical abilities, which can lead to withdrawal from work or social activities. If you think that these problems are affecting your daily life, or the life of someone you know, you should talk to your doctor.

The Dementia Training Standards Framework is a helpful resource which details the essential skills and knowledge necessary across the health and social care spectrum. This framework will help guide a more efficient and consistent approach to the delivery of dementia training and education.

Winchester is the first City in Hampshire to launch a Dementia Friendly high street. A number of organisations and businesses have signed up to the Hampshire Dementia Action Alliance and are committed to make their staff 'dementia aware'. This will enable them to be more confident in helping customers who have dementia. In return the businesses have received a window sticker to display, showing people with dementia and their carers that the organisation is 'Dementia Friendly'. It will give people reassurance that they will be able to use those services and shops knowing they will be met with understanding and support if needed.

Living with Dementia in the Winchester District

There are a number of services and support groups across the district for carers and those suffering with dementia, for more information please see the links section on the right hand site of this page.

Winchester City Council are working closely with partners on the District Health and Wellbeing Board to provide a range of initiatives to help make the district more dementia friendly.

Andover Mind has been commissioned to identify and train a team of volunteer ‘Dementia Champions’ who can then cascade dementia awareness sessions in their local communities. The project is closely linked to the national Alzheimer’s Society ‘Dementia Friends’ movement.

A ‘Dementia Friend’ is someone who has the understanding of what it is like to live with Dementia, turning their knowledge into practical action. Every small action can help, from visiting someone living with Dementia to spreading the word about the campaign.

Please visit the Dementia Friends website to find a session near you.

The Princes Royal Trust for Carers have been awarded the contract for Countywide Carer Support Services from Hampshire County Council. The service is set to offer help to Hampshire Carers over the age of 18 looking after an adult with a long-term health condition, including dementia, and those looking after a person with a physical or learning disability.

For more information and contact details please visit https://carercentre.com/