A week-long schedule of events has been organised in libraries and museums across Lancashire to support Dementia Awareness Week and the support services available.
The events at libraries from Sunday 17th May to Saturday 23rd May will promote the use of books to help people living with dementia, their families, friends and the carers who support them.
They have been co-ordinated by library staff with partner organisations including the Alzheimer’s Society, Dementia Friends and Genesis Care and include dementia friends’ sessions, a memory festival and café and coffee mornings.
Marcus Johnstone, Lancashire County Council’s cabinet member for environment, planning and cultural services, said: “Unfortunately in Lancashire the number of people living with dementia is higher than the national average, so it is important that we do all we can to raise awareness of the condition and to help those people who are living with it.
“Libraries are providing book-based support for people as we know that this can help. Since the launch of Reading Well Books on Prescription for dementia in January, loans of books in this scheme have increased.
“Our collection ranges from self-help books to powerful personal accounts of how the lives of people have been shaped assisting a loved one with dementia and medical information offering practical advice about the condition.
“People touched by dementia, whether living with it or caring for a loved one, can gain crucial support and encouragement to help live their daily lives from these books.
“I’m delighted that our libraries service is supporting this initiative.”
• People will be able to find out more about events taking place near to where they live by calling 0300 123 6703. Anyone who lives in the UK can join a Lancashire library, either online or by visiting in person. It’s free and there are no age restrictions.
• For more information about Dementia Awareness Week events or libraries, go to www.lancashire.gov.uk and search under events; or visit the national site on the Alzheimer’s Society web site at www.alzheimers.org.uk/remembertheperson