Tackling dementia…in a flash

Dementia Awareness Week in Coventry starts with a song and dance.

Alzheimer’s Society in Coventry and Warwickshire is encouraging people who have concerns about dementia to stop bottling it up this Dementia Awareness Week (18th–24th May 2014).

People are invited to help launch the week with a one-off performance in the city centre on Saturday 17th May at 1pm that will see hundreds of people involved in a special song and dance routine. The Flash Mob will perform in the Broadgate area by the Lady Godiva statue, near Cathedral Lanes shopping centre and Primark.

Alzheimer’s Society volunteers and staff will start the performance and are encouraging members of the public to come down to the Broadgate area and join in!  It’s the prelude to a week of events to raise awareness of dementia in Coventry and Warwickshire.

Janice Connolly, Operations Manager for Alzheimer’s Society in Birmingham, Coventry and Warwickshire said: “Dementia Awareness Week offers a chance for anyone with any concerns about dementia to find help and support. The event in Coventry city centre is the ideal way to launch a week of activities to challenge some of the myths which surround dementia.”

Dave Ash, Regional Operations Manager for Alzheimer’s Society in the West Midlands added: “Dementia has replaced cancer as the health condition people fear most. It is therefore no surprise that many people feel confused or even ashamed to talk about it. We all bury our heads in the sand from time to time but it is important to seek help. The sooner you know what you’re dealing with, the sooner you can get on with your life and feel in control again. This event is a great opportunity find out more about how Alzheimer’s Society can help you.”

Alzheimer’s Society in Birmingham, Coventry and Warwickshire has a range of services which support people with dementia and their carers These include: Dementia Support Services, Singing For the Brain, Dementia Café’s, Day Support, Information Resource Services and Advocacy.

The charity is also hoping that local businesses and individuals will hold their own fundraising events between 18th–24th May 2013 to raise valuable funds for people with dementia and their carers. From a pop-up restaurant to a picnic in the garden, an art event to a street party, whatever you decide to do, the money you raise will help improve the lives of people with dementia and their families in our local communities. For lots of great fundraising ideas, go to alzheimers.org.uk/grandopening