Do you look after someone with dementia or indeed live and work with it?

If so, the Departments of Health and Social Care are hosting a free day to raise awareness about the different aspects of dementia  on Thursday 31st January 2013 in the Royal Hall, Villa Marina.
 
The afternoon session from 2 – 5pm is specifically aimed at those who have or care for people with dementia. This session is free and you don’t have to book in advance, just turn up between 2 – 2.15pm when the event will start.
 
Dr Chris Jagus, Consultant Psychiatrist with the Older Persons Mental Health Service on the Isle of Man who works extensively to help people with dementia will open the afternoon session giving an insight into the work he is involved in and the impact that dementia has on those affected as well as those who support and care for them.
 
Dr Jagus will be followed by a second speaker, Dr Ann Johnson, who has more experience than most of dementia. Dr Johnson originally trained as a nurse and then moved on to become a lecturer in nursing at the University of Manchester before being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease seven years ago at the age of 52. Dr Johnson is an ambassador for the Alzheimer’s Society, working tirelessly for them as well as being involved in national TV and radio coverage, giving lectures and speaking at many events, describing the cause of dementia and her own personal journey. The Departments of Health and Social Care consider it to be a real privilege to have Dr Johnson speaking.
 
Dr Johnsons work has been recognised recently when she was awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of Bolton for her outstanding contribution to health care. Hopefully the session with Dr Jagus and Dr Johnson will give a better understanding of dementia and the knowledge that life doesn’t just stop once a diagnosis is given.
 
Following the information session there will be ample opportunity to look around the exhibition stands, where a wide range of information will be available both in written material and through the knowledge of those manning the stands.
 
If you want to attend the information session but the person you are caring for would need support in your absence please contact this number 685645 and your needs can be discussed and possibly support provided, to enable you to attend.