Michael Fabricant today expressed support for people with dementia and
their carers in the Lichfield constituency in the run up to Alzheimer’s
Awareness Week.

The theme of the week, which will run from 3 to 9 July 2005, is ‘Think
again’, and the Alzheimer’s Society will be focusing on the issues that
affect younger people with dementia. These include financial and
employment issues.

Michael Fabricant says: "’I am pleased to support the Alzheimer’s
Society during Alzheimer’s Awareness Week. When we think of dementia we
usually think of older people and it is important to remember that
dementia can affect anyone at any age. It is estimated that more than
595 people living in the Lichfield constituency have dementia and more
than three times that number are affected by the consequences. Often,
they suffer more – through grief – than the person with dementia.
Dementia affects one in 20 people over the age of 65 and one in five
over the age of 80. For those worried about dementia either because
they are concerned with their own memory loss or for a loved one, they
should call the national Alzheimer’s Helpline on 0845 300 0336."

Neil Hunt, chief executive of the Alzheimer’s Society says: "I’m
delighted that Mr Michael Fabricant is supporting Alzheimer’s Awareness
Week. The week will invite us to think again about how we should be
supporting younger people with dementia and their families."

The Alzheimer’s Society is the UK’s leading care and research charity
for people with dementia and their carers.
Over 18,000 people under 65 have dementia.
Over 750,000 people in the UK have dementia.