British Turks have a chance to learn about Alzheimers (dementia) at a special seminar this Sunday. Organised by care in the community specialist Stepping Out, in conjunction with Limasollular Derneği UK, community members will have a chance to learn about the disease from the experts and to ask them questions.
Dementia describes different brain disorders that trigger a loss of brain function. These conditions are all usually progressive and eventually severe. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, affecting 62 per cent of those diagnosed. Symptoms include memory loss, confusion and problems with speech and understanding. Dementia is a terminal condition – there is currently no cure for it. It is most common in the over 65s: one in six people over the age of 80 is diagnosed with dementia.
With people living longer, the disease is affecting increasing numbers. Determining how best to deal with the disease and support the patient can be difficult, especially for a community which believes in caring for their elderly family members in their own home.
Limasollular Derneği UK – one of the most active Turkish community groups – have teamed up with Stepping Out, whose work involves caring for those suffering from dementia. On Sunday 28 Feb. they will hold a seminar at the Turkish Cypriot Community Association (TCCA), with all members of the community most welcome to attend.
The seminar speakers include Dr Tahsin Bilginer, Janan Thompson (St James’s Place), and Umahan Bilal (Muslim Sisters), who will give professional advice and guidance on a variety of aspects about the disease, from how to identify and cope with it, to family tax planning and money management for long-term care. Also speaking will be Arife Retvan, head of the Limasollular group, and Stepping Out managing director Turhan Ismail, who have both had first hand experience of the disease and will share their stories and findings with you.
Stepping Out managing director Turhan Ismail said, “We wanted to raise awareness of the disease, its symptoms, how it affects patients, and the people around them, as well as what help and support is available to them. People will have the chance to ask questions too, so come armed with a notepad and pen as there will be lots of info to jot down and take away.”
He added, “The seminar is not just about the disease: it’s also very important to understand, plan and prepare for your imminent old age. We want you to think about how best to manage your assets – wealth, savings and investments – so they truly benefit the people you hold dear instead of the tax man.”
There will be light refreshments available at the venue, which is easy to reach via public transport and car. The premises are also wheelchair friendly.
Seminar: Living with Alzheimers
Date: Sunday 28 February 2016
Start time: 3-6pm
Language: a mix of English and Turkish
Venue address: Main hall, Turkish Cypriot Community Association (TCCA), 628-630 Green Lanes, Harringay, London N8 OSD (wheelchair-friendly)
Admission: Free
More info: from Arife Retvan Hanim on 07713 160 684 or email Turhan Ismail: ti@stepping-out.org
