Boris bangs the drum for Alzheimer’s Society
MP meets group during Dementia Awareness Week
BORIS Johnson learned a lesson about dementia and tried his hand at bongo drumming during an Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Cafe meeting in Uxbridge.
The Uxbridge and South Ruislip MP met the group as part of Dementia Awareness Week (May 1521) and could not help but get involved in their session.
Charity staff and volunteers at the service shared information about dementia and explained how people can live well with the condition.
Boris took part in a Dementia Friends Session on Friday, when he tried his hand at the African drumming organised for that day’s group activity.
Mr Johnson said: “It is great to see that Alzheimer’s Society is inviting people to confront dementia head on this Dementia Awareness Week.
“It’s a wonderful way of tackling the many myths and misunderstandings about the condition.
“The message I have come away with today is that life doesn’t end when dementia begins.”
The Dementia Friends sessions are designed to raise awareness, reduce stigma and to help turn understanding into action.
Tim McLachlan, operations director for Greater London at Alzheimer’s Society, said: “It was fantastic to meet Boris Johnson today and everyone who attends the Dementia Cafe was pleased to talk about how much they benefit from the service.
“This Dementia Awareness Week we are hoping to convey the message to everyone that the sooner you face up to dementia by coming to us for help, the sooner you can get the right treatment, support and advice to tackle it.
“Alzheimer’s Society is here for anyone affected by dementia and there are lots of ways we can help you.
“Call our National Dementia Helpline on 0300 222 1122 or visit our website.”
It’s a wonderful way of tackling the many myths and misunderstandings about the condition”