To help highlight the need for accurate dementia diagnoses, Rugby MP Mark Pawsey met with Age UK Coventry & Warwickshire’s Chief Executive, Michael Garrett, at the Claremont Centre during Dementia Action Week 2023.
Mark joined in at one of the Dementia Day Opportunities centres run by Coventry & Warwickshire Age UK at the Claremont Centre in the heart of Rugby. The group runs during the week to help support local residents with dementia to live independently and socialise with others. Keeping active, both physically and mentally, has been proven to help with dementia which makes programmes like Dementia Day Opportunities really vital to supporting those with dementia.
Whilst at the Dementia Day Opportunities Centre, Mark spoke with the Chief Executive of Coventry & Warwickshire Age UK, Michael Garrett, about their work in the region and the importance of accessing a diagnosis of dementia. The activities running at the Dementia Day Opportunities Centre during Mark’s visit included a music quiz, alongside the opportunity to socialise and connect with others. Other sessions offer a variety of activities, including Arts and crafts or exercises and are supported by Age UK’s network of volunteers. Rugby’s Dementia Day Opportunities centre runs every Monday - Thursday from 9.30am to 3.00pm. More information can be found online at https://www.ageuk.org.uk/coventryandwarwickshire/our-services/dementia-day-opportunities or by calling 02476 231999.
Speaking after the visit, Mark said:
“This Dementia Action Week was focused on the importance of diagnosis, which sadly has dropped slightly in recent years. Diagnosis is absolutely vital as it enables those with dementia to access support and additional services to help them. Although I know that it can be very concerning, but what was clear from my visit to the Claremont Centre was how important this diagnosis can be for those who might be living with dementia and I would encourage anyone concerned that they might be living with dementia to seek a diagnosis as soon as possible.”
Mark continued:
“I was also really pleased to be able to talk to Michael about the use of the Claremont Centre by Age UK Coventry & Warwickshire. This building has always been a really important community hub in the heart of Rugby’s town centre and I was delighted to see it being used to support my constituents throughout the week.”
Michael Garratt, Chief Executive of Age UK Coventry & Warwickshire added:
"This year, Dementia Action Week focuses on increasing diagnosis rates. Age UK Coventry and Warwickshire encourages anyone who suspects that they, or someone they know, may have dementia, to book an appointment with their GP. An early and accurate diagnosis can provide access to support- such support may include therapies, groups, medicines and may increase entitlement to financial benefits. Our Dementia Day Opportunities in Rugby is an example of such support that is available- both for the person with the diagnosis and as respite for carers. It was great to be given the opportunity to show Mark Pawsey the friendly, welcoming atmosphere there, that is a testament to the hard work of our staff and volunteers."