Help at hand for families of dementia sufferers
Bosses at Sunderland Carers Centre have reminded the family and friends of those living with dementia that help is at hand, after Dame Barbara Windsor’s husband spoke of the former soap star’s devastating diagnosis.
Vera Maw, who heads up the team responsible for supporting the carers of people living with dementia at the organisation, hopes that the experiences shared by Scott Mitchell, who is married to the 80-year-old Carry On and Eastenders legend, will help to shine a light on the journey loved one’s face when those closest to them are diagnosed with a terminal condition.
Vera said: “When people receive a dementia diagnosis, invariably they are left devastated by it, and they turn to their loved ones to support them through the tough times.
“And that can be incredibly challenging for the carer, taking on the practical and emotional strain of supporting someone they care about as they move through their dementia pathway, often without the knowledge or support network themselves to be able to adequately cope.”
She added: “Our message is that help is available for carers.
“We’re a free service, dedicated to supporting the friends and family of those living with all kinds of conditions, and with the prevalence of diseases like dementia, it’s vital that people know we are here to help.”
More about Sunderland Carers Centre is available at www.sunderlandcarers. co.uk or by calling 0191 549 3768 or popping in to the centre on Thompson Road.