Throughout the month, Dementia Carers Count will be shining a light on dementia carers, the challenges they can face, the support they need and why their voices matter.

Because when we talk about dementia, we also need to talk about the people providing care.

World Alzheimer’s Month takes place every September, with World Alzheimer’s Day marked on 21 September.

It is an opportunity to increase understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, challenge misconceptions and encourage more open conversations about dementia and its impact on people, families and communities.

Raising awareness matters. The better dementia is understood, the better equipped we are to recognise when someone may need support, including the family members and friends caring for them.

Memory loss is one of the symptoms most commonly associated with Alzheimer’s disease, but the condition can affect many different aspects of everyday life.

A person may experience changes to:

Thinking and problem-solving
Everyday tasks, planning and making decisions may become more difficult.

Communication
Finding the right words, following conversations or expressing needs can become harder.

Orientation
Someone may become confused about where they are, the date or what is happening.

Mood and behaviour
Anxiety, frustration, withdrawal or other changes in mood and behaviour can occur.

Relationships and independence
As someone’s needs change, relationships, independence and caring roles can change too.

Every person’s experience of dementia is different. Understanding that dementia can affect much more than memory can help us better understand both the person living with dementia and those supporting them.

A dementia diagnosis can bring significant changes for family and friends too. As someone’s needs change, those around them may take on new responsibilities, provide practical and emotional support, and navigate difficult decisions.

Many people don’t immediately think of themselves as a ‘carer’ – they simply see themselves as a partner, relative or friend supporting someone they love.

At Dementia Carers Count, we believe their needs and experiences matter too. This World Alzheimer’s Month, we’re shining a light on dementia carers and making sure they know they are not alone and that support is available.

Dementia Carers Count provides free practical and emotional support for anyone caring for someone with dementia.

Help us make dementia carers more visible this World Alzheimer’s Month by sharing our graphics across your social media channels and networks.

You can use the suggested caption below when sharing: