Hazel Fort and Rosemary Hart made an interesting presentation on the subject of Dementia
at our last meeting. Their emphasis was on popular perceptions of dementia and reactions
to it. We learnt that dementia affects a significant number of elderly people, but it is not
confined to them. It is a disease of the brain, of which the most obvious symptom is memory
loss. The speakers argued for a sympathetic and sensitive approach to those suffering from
this condition and provided information on how one can sign up to more active support for
them. We were fortunate to be given this thought-provoking talk on a problem which is
prevalent in our society. In being led to consider our own responses we will be better able to
relate to anyone we encounter with dementia.
John Sharp