Dementia/Memory Loss

The Alzheimer's Society is the UK's leading care and research charity for people with dementia and those who care for them. It promotes a greater public understanding and awareness of dementia in all its forms - Alzheimer's, Vascular, Picks, and many more. Alzheimer's is the most common type of memory loss and alongside other dementia produces physical changes in the brain. Dementia is not necessarily a part of the normal ageing process, although over 18,000 people in the UK under the age of 65 have dementia.

The Runnymede Alzheimer's Society offers various forms of support to people with dementia and their carers.

Day Centre: 'The 3B's Club' meets Monday to Friday from 10.00am to 4.00pm and offers care and social activity in the happy, relaxed and homely environment of Brockhurst in Ottershaw. All staff are trained in dementia care and are CRB checked. Activities vary from musical bingo, to reminiscence, to quizzes, to playing with a parachute, to a quiet read of the newspaper. Outings are arranged in the spring and summer, and refreshments and a hot lunch are provided. Transport to and from the club can be arranged, and charges are minimal.

Outreach Worker: A confidential advice and support service is offered to carers by our outreach worker to cover information on all aspects of memory loss and assistance. These include; difficult dementia behaviours and information about other services offered locally. There are also carer talks on subjects as diverse as the financial/legal implications and continence/hydration with particular reference to the experience of people with dementia.

Contact Day Support Manager, Runnymede Alzheimer's Society, Brockhurst, Brox Road, Ottershaw, KT16 0HQ Tel: 01932 874060

Helpline The Society runs a national helpline (8.30 - 6.30 weekdays): 0845 300 0336 Its website offers over 50 specialist information sheets on all aspects of dementia and caring for a person with dementia: www.alzheimers.org.uk