Dementia Awareness Day is a Success

More than 60 residents from the African Caribbean Community in Walsall have been given an insight into dementia and its early signs and symptoms in a bid to raise awareness of the condition.  The event, hosted by Walsall Black Sisters’ Collective and supported by NHS Walsall, was held at Bethel Lighthouse Centre at the end of August. 

Michael Hurt, Dementia Care Programme Manager for NHS Walsall, said: “The event was a great success and it was nice to see so many members of the African Caribbean Community there. The number of people with dementia is rising and it is really important that people are able to recognise the signs and symptoms as early as possible. “

Guest speakers, Psychiatrist Dr Luay Kafienah and Nurse Specialist Becky Wills from Dudley and Walsall Mental Health Partnership Trust, talked to the residents about the early signs of dementia and support available in Walsall. The Physical Activity Team from NHS Walsall Community Health led a fitness session and talked about the health benefits of physical activity on both the body and mind.

Maureen Lewis, Chief Officer for Walsall Black Sisters’ Collective, said: “We were really pleased to see so many people join us to learn more about dementia and how to spot the signs and symptoms.  It is really important that we work together with local organisations to help and support those who are already living with dementia and give them the best possible health and well being outcomes.”

Image: From left to right:

Charlene Hall, Selina Whinnery & Maureen Lewis