Lancashire County Council is supporting a national campaign to encourage people to become ‘Dementia Friends’.
This week is National Dementia Week and with more than 7,600 people registered as having dementia in the county, people are being urged to help those living with the condition.
More than 0.65% of Lancashire’s population are registered as having dementia compared to 0.57% nationally.
The Dementia Friends campaign is run by Public Health England and encourages people to visit www.dementiafriends.org.uk to find out what they can do to help.
This campaign runs throughout May and features advertisements, events, social media activities and video clips on YouTube.
Dr Sakthi Karunanithi, Lancashire County Council’s director of public health, said: “In Lancashire, the number of people suffering from dementia is higher than the national average, so it’s important we do what we can to help raise awareness of this condition.
“If we live past 65, one in three of us will develop dementia and every one of us will be affected by it because we will all know someone living with the condition.
“It is possible for people with dementia to live well, happily and independently for many years. However, they need help, understanding and kindness from those around them.
“Becoming a Dementia Friend is one way to help and it will only take you a few minutes to find out more.
“Visit the Dementia Friends website at www.dementiafriends.org.uk today – it’s your chance to make a difference.”
• During Dementia Awareness Week, people will be able to find out more about Dementia Friends in Lancashire County Council’s libraries and museums, and at other community venues throughout Lancashire.
• Visit http://bit.ly/lancsdementiafriends2014 for more information