PEOPLE in West Dunbartonshire are being asked to find out more about dementia, a condition which affects almost every family in some way.

Scotland’s Dementia Awareness Week runs from Monday, June 4 to Sunday, June 10, and Alzheimer Scotland is calling on West Dunbartonshire residents to help make sure nobody faces dementia alone.

Dementia affects almost every family in Scotland, making it the country’s biggest public health issue.

This year, Alzheimer Scotland wants everyone to find out more about dementia, especially the small but vital things we can all do to help people live well with the condition.

With the right information, care and support – alongside better public awareness and understanding – people with dementia will be recognised and valued in our local communities.

Henry Simmons, chief executive of Alzheimer Scotland, said: “Dementia is Scotland’s biggest public health issue.

“We want people to join with us this Dementia Awareness Week and be part of a collective voice calling for the best possible information, support, care and recognition for everyone living with dementia. Together, we can make a real difference.”

Everyone can play their part by getting involved at a local awareness event, by taking part in the online conversation #DementiaAwareness or by hosting a tea and blether.

Everyone can play their part to help make sure that nobody faces dementia alone. For a full list of local events visit www.alzscot/daw.

Henry Rankin, member of the Scottish Dementia Working Group, who is living with dementia, said: “Being diagnosed with dementia turned my life upside down.

“But with the right help, I’ve been able to plan ahead and decide what I want to do.

“I’m being supported to live well with dementia. I hope that this Dementia Awareness Week, more people find out about dementia, what it means to have the condition and how they could help.”

There are 90,000 people living with dementia in Scotland and it is estimated that 20,000 people will be diagnosed every year by 2020.

If you have any questions about dementia and of the services available in your area call Alzheimer Scotland’s 24 Dementia Helpline on 0808 808 3000 or visit alzscot.org.