Local organisations join forces to support people with memory loss
NHS Bury Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), Bury Council and a host of local organisations have joined forces to offer support to those who have recently been diagnosed with memory loss. The new provision, called Memory Loss Support Services, will help patients with a memory loss condition known as mild cognitive impairment.
Mild cognitive impairment is where a person has a decline in their cognition (thinking) which does not impact their functioning (ability to carry out a task). Thinking occurs in different areas of the brain, so each individual with the condition may display different symptoms. For some, the impairment could mean they cannot find the words, remember certain objects and items or it could affect some of the skills the individual wants to use.
It is estimated that a third of people over 65 may have mild cognitive impairment and some of those will go on to develop dementia. The Memory Loss Support Services will help those diagnosed with a memory loss condition to understand what it means and offer tools to reduce their risk of developing dementia.
The services will provide free and confidential guidance for:
- Health and lifestyle advice
- Counselling and emotional support
- Financial and benefits advice
- Opportunities to meet other people affected by memory loss.
Once the individual has been diagnosed, they can self-refer by contacting any of the local organisations that form the Memory Loss Support Services. Download our information leaflet (in the 'downloads' section) to see which local organisations are offering advice and guidance.
Watch this guide to learn more about mild cognitive impairment. The video includes advice from Dr. Jeff Schryer, Chair of NHS Bury CCG and local GP, for what to do if you think you, a friend or a member of your family may be experiencing mild cognitive impairment.