Well, that is my first public speaking over. I, and others, spoke out about what is required to be done to assist those with dementia, and their carers and our real life experiences. We will have to monitor the agencies so that they put our words into action. We will be involved in much of what was discussed, which is good.

Scotland is so much better than England, however there is still much to be done, especially with the Local Authorities and the NHS postcode lottery. I have been asked to speak at the Grampian NHS conference in May, so I seem to be, and I want to be!, a wanted speaker.

Dementia is not an inevitable part of ageing. It is a disease, so the care and support required by those with it should be free at the point of delivery, as it is with other illnesses in the UK.

Whatever people say, the reason is cost. Yes, personal care is free in Scotland. As of next month even for those of us under 65, due to Frank’s Law. However the definition of personal care is very restrictive, and support such as music therapy, and reminiscing should be free as well for ever because such support assists the person with dementia to fight the disease for longer, thus lessening the cost of Care Homes.

Society has a blind spot when it comes to dementia ; I really can’t see why as we all will get or know someone with dementia. Having worked in the sector, all I can think of is that councils, in particular, like to publicise good news. However, this lets people think everything is rosy, when the opposite is the case often.

I will probably return to this subject in another post.