The Alzheimer’s Society is a United Kingdom based care and research charity for people with dementia and their carers. In Northern Ireland alone it is reported that there are over 20,400 people with dementia and this number is set to rise.

With this growing figure, Dementia Support Worker Conall Smyth believes that it is important to raise awareness of the Alzheimer’s Society so that everyone affected by dementia can be connected to the support and information that they need.

Based in Enniskillen, Conall works with individuals in Fermanagh who are living with dementia on a daily basis, as well as their carers, family members and friends.

Talking about his role locally, Conall said: “Within the Fermanagh area we aim to be there for people diagnosed with dementia right from the onset.”

He continued: “To do this, we attend local memory clinics within the South West Acute Hospital to give people the option of discussing a diagnosis as soon as they have received one.”

“Alternatively, we also conduct visits in the comfort of your own home or care home, or if you prefer, visit in a public place over a cup of coffee, where we can discuss all things related to a diagnosis of dementia,” he added.

Noting that some people may be uncomfortable with a face-to-face visit, Conall added that support and advice can also be obtained by calling the local Alzheimer’s Society office and having a discussion over the phone.

In Enniskillen, the Alzheimer’s Society facilitates dementia cafés and carer support groups. Dementia cafés are run on the second and third Monday of each month at the Belmore Court Motel. These cafés provide an opportunity for people living with dementia and a family member to meet and gain the support of others in a friendly social environment whilst participating in a variety of meaningful activities, such as music and reminiscence.

The society’s carer support group takes place on the second Thursday of each month and provides an opportunity for carers to share experiences and receive peer support in a safe, friendly, and confidential environment.

Revealing that dementia is now regarded as the United Kingdom’s biggest killer, with someone developing it every three minutes, Conall said: “We believe that it is vital that people know that we are here for everyone affected by dementia, around the clock, no matter where you are.”

He added: “On top of that, we are committed to raising awareness so that local businesses, councils and services are all aware of how they can make life simpler for those living with dementia by making small changes to how they currently do things.”

When asked how local people affected by dementia can access the Alzheimer’s Society services, Conall said: “One can access our local services through a referral basis. This can be through a Consultant, GP, Social Worker, or simply through self-referral.”