In recent days and months, we have witnessed an increase in hard hitting and in the view of many people, stereotypical and frightening images of what living with some form of dementia means, however Alzheimer Scotland does not support this approach.
Every day Alzheimer Scotland supports thousands of people throughout Scotland to live well with dementia. We know what can be achieved through supporting people in those initial months following a dementia diagnosis in the form of Post Diagnostic Support. We also know the therapeutic value of our day services and the innovative programmes delivered through our Brain Health & Dementia Resource Centres.
We hear first-hand through our Dementia Advisor network and our Dementia Helpline the impact of the illness at all stages. We know how difficult it is when people experience anticipatory grief, which is why we were very supportive of this having such a prominent role in the recent Scottish clinical guidance. It is also why our major campaigning work in recent years has been focused and targeted at improving the care and support for people as they progress to this advance stage. We will never stop advocating for dementia care to be fair and equitable and we will build on our Fair Dementia Care campaign with the publication of our long term care commission findings and recommendations in the next few months. The best way that we as a society can improve the lives of people with dementia and their carers is by changing and improving our health and social care system so that they never feel let down or own their own.
We know that with the right support, people can and do live well with dementia for many years. Alzheimer Scotland is here to make sure nobody faces dementia alone. If you or anyone you know needs support, please make contact via our 24-hour Freephone Dementia Helpline on 0808 808 3000.