May 10, 2024

A free drop-in event in Penrith for people living with dementia and their carers will take place this month to help raise awareness of the importance of keeping active.

Organised by the Eden Dementia Friendly Communities Partnership, the event will include gentle fitness and bowls tasters suitable for people with dementia and their carers, alongside information stalls about local support services and a Dementia Friends Information Session.

The event is also aimed at anyone interested in learning more about dementia and staying active to live longer and healthier.

Active Cumbria Development Officer Clare Paling and Project Officer Anna will be attending the free drop-in which will take place at Penrith Leisure Centre on Thursday 16 May, from 10am to 1pm. Anyone interested in attending can find out more on Eventbrite or by emailing eden.areasupport@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

Fitness tasters will include boccia, seated exercise classes for seniors to improve balance, flexibility, heart health and co-ordination and gentle activities specifically designed to help older people become more active and socialise.

An Alzheimer's Society Dementia Ambassador will also run a Dementia Friends Information session – attendees to this will learn what it's like to live with dementia and the small actions which can be taken to support people living with the condition. Everyone who attends will earn an Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Friends badge. 

Dementia awareness is more valuable than ever as it’s estimated from the latest 2023 data that only 45.7% of dementia cases are diagnosed in Eden, which is significantly lower than for England (63%). This highlights there may be local people living with undiagnosed dementia who aren't receiving the appropriate treatment, advice and support that could help them to lead active and fulfilling lives.

The Eden Dementia Friendly Communities Partnership brings together local charities, community and faith groups, health and emergency services, local councils, and businesses. Its mission is to raise awareness of dementia risk factors, prevention strategies, and early signs of dementia, as well as providing information on local support, services and activities for individuals affected by this condition, and their families and carers.

The partnership is chaired by Cathryn Beckett, Public Health lead for Eden with Westmorland and Furness Council, who said:

“We’re encouraging anyone who may be interested to come along and find out more about dementia; there’s lots of great support available here in Eden, including advice about the small practical things that we can all do to support people living with dementia in our community. There will also be more information on ways in which we can reduce the risks of developing dementia."

There are also events and activities taking place across Cumberland.  Find the full list and itinerary here.