Dementia & carers wellbeing guidance

It’s estimated that one in 14 people aged over 65 has dementia, and the likelihood of developing it increases significantly with age. In fact, one in six people over 80 live with the condition. It is an unpredictable and progressive disease, with no cure at present. There are unique challenges associated with living with or caring for someone with dementia.

We often think of dementia as being memory loss, but it's much more than this and can affect the way someone speaks, thinks, feels, and behaves.

Dementia is not a natural part of ageing; it's caused by disease damaging parts of the brain. While there aren't cures, there are treatments that can halt or slow the progress of the symptoms, and there's also plenty of support available that helps someone remain active with a fulfilling life.

This guide will help you to understand what dementia is, recognise the symptoms, and direct you to sources of information & support, including the Bank Workers Charity who offer a range of services and help to current and former bank workers (including partners and dependents).

So, let's get stuck in and talk about dementia.

Our guidance covers:

• What dementia is
• The types and symptoms related to dementia
• Recognising the signs of a problem
• Talking about dementia
• Why it's important to recognise your role as a carer when you're providing care
• What we can do to reduce the risks of developing dementia

You can access our guidance page through our website.

There are many sources of support available, we've listed some in our guidance:

• We provide support contacts for dementia and mental health related concerns
• Information about how the Bank Workers Charity can help you, and how they have helped others
• Information about care need assessments
• Tips on looking after your wellbeing as a carer, as well as the wellbeing of those you're caring for
• Links to support accessing financial assistance you may be entitled to, and how to access other financial support including that of the Bank Workers Charity.