Football clubs praised for tackling dementia

is also piloting a scheme for the retired to meet each week and socialise at various football clubs.

Adrian Bradley, head of health and wellbeing at the EFL, said: “We understand that everyone’s experience of dementia is unique and hence our clubs and charities are helping people to attend matches, are running activity groups, dementia cafes, support groups and reminiscence sessions.”

It is estimated that about 676,000 people have dementia in England, with one in three people likely to care for someone with the condition at some point, the NHS said.

Prof Burns said simple lifestyle changes can cut the risk of getting dementia. “Eating a healthy diet and exercising – even gentle workouts like walking football – drinking less, not smoking, keeping up your social networks and ensuring your mind stays active can all help.”

He said the clubs “as the centre of communities and many people’s lives – have an open-goal chance” to improve lives.

Dementia is associated with a decline in brain function leading to loss of memory, thinking speed and mental sharpness. Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “We know any physical activity – however great or small – can have benefits in the long term, but the wonderful thing about community activities like walking football is that they bring people together socially and prevent us from getting sick in the first place.

“This festive period, with more and more older people at risk of loneliness, these kinds of groups can truly make a difference to a person’s health and quality of life.”