It’s time to ‘Tackle Your Memory’ Super League champions St. Helens have teamed up once again with local NHS mental health services to encourage fans and the community to ‘Tackle Your Memory’.
The campaign, which was launched last April, is designed to highlight the availability of support for people who may be concerned that they or someone they know may have a memory problem.
The local Memory Services, which are run by 5 Boroughs Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, will be attending the match versus league leaders Leeds Rhinos on 17 April to offer advice to fans and to signpost free local NHS services.
“Not every memory problem is linked with dementia. Some can be linked to stress, anxiety or depression, physical illness or even the side-effects of medication,” says Dr Katie Jackson-Roe.
‘What memory problems all have in common is that it’s important to speak to your GP and to ask about your local memory service so that you have more choice and support to keep as healthy and independent as possible.”
Look out for the ‘Tackle your Memory’ team at this match – they’ll be wearing green tee-shirts and handing out flyers, freebies and expert advice on where to get help.
A quick guide to dementia and mild cognitive impairment
The Department of Health estimates that there are around 670,000 people living with dementia in the UK, and this number is expected to double in the next 30 years.
Early detection and diagnosis of the condition can help people with dementia and their families to access the right treatment and support so they can live active and fulfilling lives.
What is Dementia?
Dementia is not a single illness but a group of symptoms caused by damage to the brain. Each person is unique and will experience dementia in their own way.
A person with dementia may have problems with their memory or their thinking. They might also have difficulties with concentrating, problem solving, and speech.
What is mild cognitive impairment (MCI)?
Mild cognitive impairment, or MCI as it is commonly referred to, is a term used to describe a condition involving problems with thinking, knowing and remembering. People with MCI often have difficulties with day-to-day memory.
What signs should I look out for?
Some common symptoms which may be early signs of dementia or a mild cognitive impairment include:
• Struggling to recall recent events but easily remembering things from a long time ago
• Repeating yourself or losing your ‘train of thought’
• Regularly forgetting names of friends or everyday objects
• Finding it hard to follow conversations or TV programmes
• Becoming slower in your thinking
• Regularly misplacing items or putting them in odd places
• Losing your sense of direction
If you have noticed any of these signs in yourself, a family member or a friend and are worried it may be a sign of dementia, please visit your GP and ask about your local memory service.
For more information about memory services in your area, visit www.5boroughspartnership.nhs.uk