Croydon launches local support events for Dementia Action Week

Croydon is mobilizing its community resources for Dementia Action Week, running from May 18 to May 24. This borough-wide initiative focuses on raising awareness, promoting preventative measures, and providing a robust support network for residents living with dementia and their dedicated carers.

Throughout the week, a variety of scheduled activities offer practical opportunities for residents to engage with support services and learn about cognitive health. These sessions are designed to be accessible and informative, ensuring that those affected by the condition—and those who wish to support them—have the tools they need to navigate the challenges of dementia.

Workshops and information sessions available across the borough

The schedule for the week includes a diverse range of events hosted by local organizations and the Alzheimer’s Society. Residents can participate in Dementia Friends sessions, which are specifically designed to change people’s perceptions of dementia and turn understanding into action.

In addition to these awareness sessions, the borough is hosting:
* Open days at local community hubs to showcase available care services.
* Creative workshops tailored for individuals with dementia to encourage expression and social interaction.
* Information sessions providing guidance on navigating the healthcare system and accessing financial or emotional support.

Full details regarding the specific times and locations for these events are hosted on the Croydon Council website. These initiatives are spearheaded by the Croydon Dementia Action Alliance, a partnership that includes the Council, local health and care providers, the voluntary sector, faith groups, and emergency services.

Fundraising appeal for hospital green space gains momentum

A significant part of Croydon’s long-term strategy involves improving clinical environments. An active fundraising appeal is currently underway to transform an outdoor area at Croydon University Hospital into a dedicated dementia garden. This space is planned as a calm, accessible sanctuary for older patients and those navigating the confusion often associated with hospital stays.

Sharling Bovell, Lead Nurse for Dementia Care at Croydon NHS Foundation Trust, emphasizes the psychological necessity of such a space. She noted that hospital environments can be incredibly distressing for those with dementia, where physical pain is often compounded by the confusion of an unfamiliar setting. A green space within reach provides both physical and psychological relief, offering a sense of normalcy and peace during treatment.

Five lifestyle adjustments to reduce cognitive decline risk

While dementia is not an inevitable consequence of aging, the Dementia Action Alliance is highlighting evidence that suggests specific lifestyle choices can significantly lower the risk of developing the condition. The “Think Brain Health” campaign, supported by the Alzheimer’s Society, identifies several key areas where residents can take proactive steps:

1. Physical Activity: Incorporating regular movement into daily routines.
2. Nutritional Health: Maintaining a balanced and healthy diet.
3. Social Engagement: Staying connected with friends, family, and community groups to prevent isolation.
4. Alcohol Moderation: Reducing consumption to support long-term brain function.
5. Mental Stimulation: Keeping the mind active through reading, puzzles, or learning new skills.

These steps are presented as manageable changes that can have a cumulative positive effect on long-term cognitive health.

Building a dementia-friendly community through local partnerships

The broader goal of these activities is to establish Croydon as a truly dementia-friendly borough. This involves more than just temporary events; it requires a systemic shift in how services are delivered and how the community interacts with those living with the condition.

Executive Mayor of Croydon, Jason Perry, stated that the week serves as a vital reminder of the support available and the ongoing work to reduce the stigma surrounding dementia. The Alliance is focused on improving service delivery and ensuring that every resident feels like a valued part of the community, regardless of their health status. By fostering understanding and taking simple steps toward brain health, the borough aims to ensure all residents can age well and live with dignity.

Source: Croydon Council