Understanding Dementia Action Week 2024
Dementia Action Week was a national event aimed at uniting people, workplaces, schools, and communities to take action and improve the lives of people living with dementia. Spearheaded by Alzheimer’s Society, this significant week highlighted the importance of awareness, support, and research in the battle against dementia. This year, the focus was on emphasising the importance of early diagnosis, along with connection, understanding, and support for those affected by dementia.
Why Dementia Action Week Mattered
With over 850,000 people in the UK living with dementia, and this number expected to rise to over one million by 2025, the urgency for action had never been greater. Dementia Action Week helped spread awareness, reduce stigma, and encourage the public to learn more about dementia. Notably, 1 in 3 people living with dementia do not have a diagnosis. Early diagnosis is crucial for accessing the necessary care, treatment, and support. The campaign also fostered an inclusive environment for those impacted, advocating for societal and governmental support to improve care, funding, and research towards dementia.
How People Got Involved
There were many ways to support Dementia Action Week 2024. People began by educating themselves and others about dementia. Alzheimer's Society offered resources and information to assist in this. Participating in local events or online campaigns helped amplify the message. Fundraising, whether through hosting an event or setting a personal challenge, provided crucial financial support to continue the fight against dementia. Moreover, volunteering time or advocating for change in dementia care policies made a significant impact.
The Role of Communities and Organisations
Communities and organisations played a crucial role during Dementia Action Week. Businesses adopted dementia-friendly practices, while schools and community groups organised educational activities. Every organisation had the opportunity to assess how they could become more inclusive and supportive of individuals living with dementia and their carers. Sharing stories of action and change on social media inspired others to join in, creating a ripple effect of awareness and involvement.
Our Work on Alzheimer's Disease Screening
At Occuity, we have been actively working on innovative solutions for Alzheimer's disease screening. Our research project, the Amyloid Beta Plus (Aβ+) Reader, aims to develop a non-invasive screening device for early detection of Alzheimer’s Disease. Supported by significant research funding, our work focuses on identifying biomarkers in the eye that indicate the presence of Alzheimer’s. This technology not only promises to facilitate early diagnosis but also to make screening more accessible and less invasive, thereby improving the quality of life for those at risk.
Making a Lasting Impact Beyond the Week
The impact of Dementia Action Week 2024 didn't end when the week did. The awareness raised and the actions taken had a lasting effect on individuals living with dementia, their families, and caregivers. Continued support, ongoing education, and relentless advocacy for better care and services remained essential. Every action, no matter how small, contributed to the larger fight against dementia. Dementia Action Week served as the start of a commitment to making a difference in the lives of those affected by dementia.
For more detailed information and resources from Dementia Action Week, you can visit Alzheimer’s Society's Dementia Action Week page.
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