Latest news with #RachelNelson
South Wales Argus
20-05-2025
- Health
- South Wales Argus
Half of adults in Wales unaware of this dementia symptom
Dementia can affect vision by causing problems with judging distances, perceiving object edges, and misinterpreting patterns or reflections. It can also make reading large text difficult and cause issues with recognising objects. The charity's research also found that one in ten people could not name a single common symptom of dementia. Alzheimer's Society Cymru wants to raise awareness of the six most common symptoms of dementia during Dementia Action Week, which runs from May 19 to 24. These symptoms are memory loss, difficulty organising thoughts, communication problems, vision issues, confusion about time or place, and mood or personality changes. Rachel Nelson, country manager at Alzheimer's Society Cymru, said: "At Alzheimer's Society, we see too many people delaying seeking a dementia diagnosis because they're scared or unsure what it will mean. "A diagnosis is not the end. "It's the beginning of getting the right support, making informed choices, and living well." Corinne Mills, interim CEO of Alzheimer's Society, added: "This Dementia Action Week, we're highlighting the six most common symptoms of dementia and encouraging anyone with concerns to use our free symptom checklist and seek help from their GP or other health professional." If you're worried about yourself or someone close to you, visit the Alzheimer's Society website or call Alzheimer's Society's Dementia Support Line on 0333 150 3456.
Pembrokeshire Herald
20-05-2025
- Health
- Pembrokeshire Herald
Half of adults unaware of key dementia symptom, warns Alzheimer's Society Cymru
Charity urges early diagnosis in Wales during Dementia Action Week ALMOST half of adults in Wales are unaware that problems with vision can be a common symptom of dementia, according to new research released by Alzheimer's Society Cymru. The figures come as Dementia Action Week (May 19–24) begins, with the charity aiming to raise awareness of the condition and encourage earlier diagnosis. An estimated 50,000 people are currently living with dementia in Wales — but nearly half of them do not have a formal diagnosis. The new data reveals that 50 per cent of Welsh adults did not recognise changes in vision as a symptom of dementia. One in ten people surveyed could not identify a single common symptom. Vision-related symptoms can include difficulty judging distances, trouble recognising objects, and misinterpreting patterns or reflections. Larger print may also become harder to read. Other commonly overlooked signs include changes in mood or communication difficulties. Across the UK, only 61 per cent of adults recognised problems with communication as a symptom, and 64 per cent identified mood changes. Rachel Nelson, Country Manager for Alzheimer's Society Cymru, said: 'At Alzheimer's Society, we see too many people delaying seeking a diagnosis because they're scared or unsure what it will mean. 'A diagnosis is not the end. It's the beginning of getting the right support, making informed choices and living well. 'That's why this Dementia Action Week, we're encouraging everyone to learn more about the symptoms of dementia and to seek help if they notice changes in themselves or someone close to them.' Alzheimer's Society Cymru is promoting a free online symptom checklist to help people better understand the warning signs and take action. Corinne Mills, Interim CEO of Alzheimer's Society, added: 'More than a third of people with dementia don't have a diagnosis, meaning they're missing out on the vital care, support, and treatment they need. 'Our research shows that 97 per cent of people affected by dementia saw a benefit in getting a diagnosis.' The six most common symptoms of dementia include: Memory loss – especially of recent events Difficulty organising thoughts – trouble making decisions or solving problems Problems with communication – struggling to find the right words or follow conversations Problems with vision – difficulty judging distances or seeing edges of objects Confusion about time or place – losing track of the day or forgetting where they are Changes in mood or personality – becoming unusually anxious, irritable, or withdrawn The charity emphasises that dementia is not a normal part of ageing, and early diagnosis allows access to treatments, care options, and the ability to plan ahead — including appointing a power of attorney and managing finances. To check symptoms or get support, visit or call the Dementia Support Line on 0333 150 3456. Welsh language support is available on 03300 947 400. Photo caption: Supporting early diagnosis: Alzheimer's Society Cymru urges people to check symptoms and seek help during Dementia Action Week (Pic: Alzheimer's Society).
