Asda staff will join the war against dementia

Staff at Asda pharmacy in Linwood are being trained to recognise the early signs of dementia.

The company is responding to a survey of more than 2,000 people where half said a loved one being diagnosed with dementia and taken into care is their worst fear.

However, despite this fear, Scots are often reluctant to seek help.

Of those suffering from any early indicators that something is wrong, many are hesitant to confide in anyone about it, whether that be a family member or a health professional. Almost half of the nation said they would wait some time before speaking to a GP about memory loss.

Maq Din, healthcare clinical services manager at Asda Pharmacy, said: “Those experiencing age- related memory loss will more often than not recall what they have forgotten in time, however dementia sufferers lose their memory much more permanently.

“Early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s and dementia is absolutely essential to treat the conditions effectively. The sooner a diagnosis is made the more informed and resourced the sufferer and their loved ones can be.

“By planning for the future and taking the correct medication, you can have far better control over the progression of the illness.”