Walsall residents encouraged to take positive steps for healthy ageing this World Alzheimer's Day
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Walsall residents are being encouraged to take small steps to support their health, wellbeing and independence as Walsall Council marks World Alzheimer's Day on Monday 21 September.
The awareness day forms part of Walsall Council Public Health’s Healthy Ageing campaign, which encourages people to stay active, stay connected, stay independent and stay well as they get older.
Dementia is an umbrella term for a range of conditions that affect the brain and can impact memory, thinking and everyday activities. Around 982,000 people are living with dementia in the UK.
While there is no certain way to prevent all types of dementia, there is good evidence that the everyday actions that support healthy ageing may also help reduce the risk of developing some types of dementia, while supporting overall health and wellbeing. Positive actions such as staying active, eating well, being connected with others and managing long-term health conditions can also help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as stroke and heart disease. These conditions, and the risk factors associated with them, are linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia, the two most common types of dementia.
As part of the Healthy Ageing campaign, residents are being encouraged to explore the council's 8 Steps to Wellbeing, which promote positive actions that support health, wellbeing and independence. These include being active, taking notice, connecting with others, giving to others, learning something new, staying hydrated and eating well, sleeping for wellbeing, and maintaining hope for the future.
“ Healthy ageing is about supporting people to remain active, connected, independent and well. World Alzheimer's Day provides an opportunity to raise awareness of the everyday actions that can support overall wellbeing and brain health, while encouraging residents to make the most of the local support available. Taking small steps today can help people stay active, connected, independent and well in the years ahead. “
Looking after overall wellbeing can support people to continue doing the things that matter to them. It can also help both the body and brain function at their best. In addition, being active, quitting smoking, drinking less alcohol and managing conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes may help reduce the risk of developing some types of dementia, while also supporting overall health and wellbeing.
Walsall Council is also encouraging eligible residents aged 40 to 74 to take up their free NHS Health Check.
The NHS Health Check is a free check-up that can identify early signs and risk factors associated with conditions such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and kidney disease. For many people, it is an opportunity to understand their future health risks and receive personalised advice to help them stay healthier for longer. People aged over 65 can receive information about the signs and symptoms of dementia and the steps they can take to support their long-term health and wellbeing.
Be Well Walsall provides free NHS Health Checks for eligible residents aged 40 to 74 with no pre-existing conditions. Those eligible should be invited every five years. To find out more or book a free health check, visit the Be Well Walsall website or call 01922 444044. If you are eligible and have not been invited for an NHS Health Check, ask your GP surgery or contact Be Well Walsall.
- To find out more about World Alzheimer’s Day, visit the Alzheimer’s Society website.
- For residents aged 50 and over, the Health in Later Life Physical Activity sessions are taking place across Walsall. To find out more about classes in your area, visit the Walsall Council website: New physical activity programme launches to support older residents in Walsall | Walsall Council
- GreenSquareAccord provides support for people living with dementia and their carers across Walsall. Information and support are also available to care homes in Walsall. To find out more, call 01922 638825.
- If you are affected by dementia or worried about a diagnosis, or if you care for someone with dementia, contact the Alzheimer’s Society on 0333 150 3456.
- To find dementia support in Walsall, visit the Alzheimer's Society website.
- To find activities and groups where you live, visit the Walsall Wellbeing Directory or the Walsall Community Network website.
- You can also find out more about dementia and what you can do to reduce the risk of dementia on the NHS website.
