A new initiative, designed to improve the lives of people with dementia in South Asian communities is being piloted by Alzheimer’s Society in Luton, in partnership with Centre for Youth and Community Development (CYCD).
The information programme aims to provide carers and extended family members with culturally-tailored knowledge, skills and understanding to support people with the condition.
The programme is funded by Lloyds Banking Group as part of their Live Well charity of the year campaign. It is currently being piloted in five areas of the country including Luton, with plans to roll it out to a further 15 sites this year.
People from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities are more likely to develop early onset dementia, and have a higher prevalence of vascular dementia than their White British counterparts. They also tend to access dementia services later, which can have a negative impact on carers as they may have struggled for some time without support.
Ayla Patton, Services Manager for Alzheimer’s Society in Bedfordshire and Luton said:
“A loved one’s diagnosis of dementia can be a scary and bewildering experience yet cultural elements such as language, faith and families’ close-knit bonds, can make it harder for South Asian carers to reach out and get information and advice. Many people don’t even know there’s support available to them; let alone how to access it. This programme provides much needed guidance on how to deal with dementia at the right time.”
As well as this new service, Alzheimer’s Society in Bedfordshire and Luton runs a number of services including Dementia Support, Carer’s Information and Support Programme, Cognitive Stimulation Groups, Activity Groups and Singing for the Brain. For more information contact the Luton office on 01582 470910 or visit alzheimers.org.uk/localinfo