Clues that someone may have early stage dementia are shown in different ways, according to Sharon Hurley, Dementia Services Co-ordinator at East Cheshire Hospice.
She said: “Early signs of dementia are often shown in everyday living, like forgetting simple tasks.
“Someone may enjoying singing and forgets the words. That’s why at our Singing Together groups we give out a song sheet to help them sing the songs.
“Another way of forgetfulness could be putting clothes on the wrong way round, or following their loved ones around the home constantly for re-assurance.
“Dementia probably wasn’t spoken about as much when I started my career, whereas now it’s in the news much more. Cancer was probably more of a topic than dementia back then.
“It’s also been highlighted more on adverts on TV during Covid and with more personal documentaries about the struggles people are living with quietly and which haven’t always come to the surface before.
“I think GPs are more aware about dementia now as well and patients are getting referred on sooner than perhaps they might have done at one time.
“Fortunately, there are more services available to support people living with dementia. These services are expanding and still developing.
“Here at the Hospice we can provide the support that is required to enable a better quality of life for patients and their families.”
