A free drop-in event for people living with dementia and their carers will take place next week to help raise awareness of the importance of keeping active.
Organised by the Eden Dementia Friendly Communities Partnership, the event will include fitness and bowls tasters suitable for people with dementia and their carers, alongside information stalls about local support services and a Dementia Friends Information Session.
The event is also for anyone interested in learning more about dementia and staying active to live longer and healthier.
This free drop-in will take place at Penrith Leisure Centre on Thursday May 16, from 10am to 1pm.
Fitness tasters will include boccia, exercises to improve balance, flexibility, heart health and co-ordination, and fun activities specifically designed to encourage people to be more active and socialise.
An Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Ambassador will also run a Dementia Friends Information session. Attendees will learn what it’s like to live with dementia and the small actions which can be taken to support people living with the condition. Everyone who attends will earn an Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Friends badge.
Dementia awareness is more valuable than ever as it is estimated from the latest 2023 data that only 45.7% of dementia cases are diagnosed in Eden, which is significantly lower than for England (63%).
This highlights there may be local people living with undiagnosed dementia who aren’t receiving the appropriate treatment, advice and support that could help them to lead active and fulfilling lives.
The Eden Dementia Friendly Communities Partnership brings together local charities, community and faith groups, health services, local councils and businesses. Its mission is to raise awareness of dementia risk factors, prevention strategies and early signs of dementia, as well as providing information on local support, services and activities for individuals affected by this condition, and their families and carers.
Anyone interested in attending can email eden.areasupport@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk
