Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

Campaign seeks to educate that dementia is an illness, not an old age 'issue'

Diagnosis rates for dementia hit a five-year low during the pandemic, and have stayed the same since

Campaign seeks to educate that dementia is an illness, not an old age 'issue'

One in three people who notice symptoms of dementia in themselves or a loved one wait for more than a month before seeking medical attention, an Alzheimer's Society survey to mark Dementia Action Week has revealed.   

A campaign - ‘It’s not called getting old, it’s called getting ill’ – aims to encourage people worried about their own - or someone close to them - memory, to seek support promptly.  


Diagnosis rates for dementia hit a five-year low during the pandemic, and have stayed the same since, the charity said. 

Alzheimer’s Society CEO Kate Lee said: “We need to face dementia head on. There is support out there if you’re confused about symptoms, or don’t know how to have that first tricky conversation.   

“As soon as you realise something is not right, come to Alzheimer’s Society - you can use our symptoms checklist to help have that all-important first chat with your GP.”    

In the UK, one person develops dementia every three minutes; by 2040, it is estimated that 1.6 million people will be living with the condition, the charity added.

Confusing dementia symptoms with normal ageing was the top reason people stayed silent (64 per cent), followed by not wanting to worry their loved one (33 per cent) and fears of how their relationships might change (16 per cent).  

Among the 1,100 people surveyed, 44 per cent said they were scared people would speak down to them or their loved one after they were diagnosed, or treat them like a child. 

Resident doctor on ITV's Lorraine and Good Morning Britain, Dr Amir Khan, said: “A third of us will go on to develop dementia in our lifetimes – we need to change the idea that getting dementia is inevitable as we age - it’s not called getting old - it’s called getting ill.  

“Reaching out to ask for help can feel a scary prospect, but it’s better to know. Patients I’ve seen getting a timely, accurate diagnosis have had the chance to benefit from treatments and support from organisations like Alzheimer’s Society they’d have otherwise missed out on.” 

Visit alzheimers.org.uk/memoryloss or call 0333 150 3456.  

More For You

Obesity drug
Boxes of Wegovy are seen at a pharmacy in London. (Photo: Reuters)

GPhC tightens rules for online obesity drug prescriptions

The General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), which oversees UK pharmacies, has introduced stricter rules for online pharmacies prescribing obesity drugs. The regulator said the changes aim to prevent individuals from receiving medicines that could pose health risks.

The new guidance, updated for the first time in three years, follows concerns about how some online pharmacies dispense weight-loss drugs.

Keep ReadingShow less
12 tricks to stick to your New Year’s resolutions and achieve your goals

Building habits gradually can lead to sustainable, long-term change

12 tricks to stick to your New Year’s resolutions and achieve your goals

Anjali Mehta

WHETHER it’s eating healthier, exercising more, saving money, or any number of goals, millions of people around the world make ambitious New Year’s resolutions.

Yet, by February, most of these well-intentioned plans are abandoned. If that sounds familiar, don’t worry – remember that it’s never too late to turn things around or set new goals.

Keep ReadingShow less
Getting set for a fitness journey

Bijan Azarmi

Getting set for a fitness journey

Bijan Azarmi

THE pressure to get fitter often discourages people from starting or causes them to give up soon after beginning. However, there are simple steps that can help navigate this challenging path toward better health through exercise.

With that in mind, Eastern Eye asked London-based fitness expert and personal trainer Bijan Azarmi to share his top tips for starting a physical health journey and staying motivated.

Keep ReadingShow less
Into the icy depths: Exploring Iceland’s Langjökull Ice Tunnel

Langjökull is Iceland’s second-largest glacier

Into the icy depths: Exploring Iceland’s Langjökull Ice Tunnel

Vibhuti Pathak

Nestled within Iceland’s majestic Langjökull Glacier, the man-made ice tunnel offers a breathtaking journey into the heart of one of nature’s most awe-inspiring creations. Opened in 2015, this unique attraction combines adventure, education, and engineering marvels, allowing visitors to explore the glacier’s blue-hued depths and witness its ancient icy layers. Whether you’re captivated by stunning natural beauty or curious about glacial history, this experience promises an unforgettable glimpse into Iceland’s frozen wonders.

History of Langjökull and the Ice Tunnel

Keep ReadingShow less
Feel the heat: Iceland’s Lava Show brings volcanic wonders to life

Lava Show

Feel the heat: Iceland’s Lava Show brings volcanic wonders to life

Vibhuti Pathak

The Lava Show is a one-of-a-kind immersive experience that recreates the intense spectacle of a volcanic eruption, bringing guests face-to-face with flowing molten lava. Located in Iceland, this award-winning attraction combines education, entertainment, and cultural storytelling to provide an unforgettable sensory experience. Here's everything you need to know about its history, highlights, and how to plan your visit.

History and origin

Keep ReadingShow less