The Departments of Health and Social Care are hosting a free day to raise awareness about dementia on Thursday, January 31, in the Villa Marina’s Royal Hall.
The afternoon session from 2pm to 5pm is aimed at those who have or care for people with dementia.
The session is free and there is no need to book.
Those who attend will be able to hear from Dr Chris Jagus, consultant psychiatrist with the Older Persons Mental Health Service in the Isle of Man, who works extensively to help people with dementia.
Dr Jagus will open the information session describing the work he is involved in and the impact that dementia has on those affected, as well as those who support and care for them.
The departments have been fortunate to secure a second speaker for the session, Dr Ann Johnson, who has more experience than most of dementia.
Dr Johnson originally trained as a nurse and then moved on to become a lecturer in nursing at the University of Manchester before being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease seven years ago at the age of 52.
Dr Johnson is an ambassador for the Alzheimer’s Society, working tirelessly for them as well as being involved in national TV and radio coverage, giving lectures and speaking at many events, describing the cause of dementia and her own personal journey.
In recognition of Dr Johnson’s work she was awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of Bolton for her outstanding contribution to health care. Dr Johnson will bring both her personal perspective, as a person living with dementia and her wealth of knowledge to this information session. This in turn will help to demystify dementia and demonstrate that life doesn’t just stop once a diagnosis is given.
Following the information session there will be an opportunity to look around the exhibition stands, where a range of information will be available both in written material and through the knowledge of those manning the stands.
If you want to attend the information session, but the person you are caring for would need support in your absence contact 685645 and your needs can be discussed and possibly support provided, to enable you to attend.
