A DEMENTIA roadshow is being held in South Gloucestershire at the end of the month and residents are invited along.

The event, Living Well with Dementia, is being organised by South Gloucestershire Council and takes place on Thursday, October 29 (2-4.30pm).

The free roadshow is aimed at anyone who has recently been diagnosed with dementia, their carers or relatives and will offer practical, emotional and health advice. It will provide people with the information they need to understand a diagnosis, find out what support is available and learn how to live well with dementia.

Dr Peter Bagshaw, clinical lead for dementia for South Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “Around 3,000 people in South Gloucestershire have dementia and this is expected to double in the next 30 years. We hope the roadshows will raise awareness of dementia and help reduce the stigma around the condition.

“We encourage people who think they may have dementia to go to their GP as an early diagnosis means that we can start to help. GPs can offer medication and signpost to a wide range of support services in the community to improve your quality of life.”

The roadshow will feature a talk by a local GP, talks on managing legal affairs and a practical session focusing on memory techniques. Experts will be on hand to answer any questions and there will be a range of stalls featuring information which is available from local organisations, including support aimed at carers.

Sue Jaques, adults commissioning manager at South Gloucestershire Council, said: “Being diagnosed with dementia can leave the person with dementia and their family with lots of questions about to expect and what they can do to plan for the future.

“These roadshows provide useful information to help answer these questions and provide reassurance that you’re not on your own. Anyone who is currently living with dementia and their families are encouraged to book a place.”

Email cchengagement@southglos.gov.uk or call 01454 862356 to book a place.