Alzheimer’s Research UK develops new easy read leaflets
New easy read resources about dementia have been created for people with learning disabilities, thanks to a partnership between Alzheimer’s Research UK, Nottingham City Learning Disability and Autism Partnership Board (SPLAT). The dementia charity said some learning disabilities, such as Down’s Syndrome, can make someone more likely to develop dementia but many resources often use hard words. Both learning disabilities and dementia can also:
- Make it harder to notice changes in health
- Make it harder to talk about problems
- Make it harder to tell dementia apart from other conditions.
To address this, the organisations worked together to make leaflets that are easy to read and understand. People with learning disabilities helped shape the leaflets, from wording to design. This made sure the leaflets are as clear and helpful as possible for anyone who needs them.
Helpful pictures and practical tips
There are two leaflets available to download or print, one of which includes helpful pictures that explain how someone with dementia might think and feel. It also contains information on how different types of dementia might make people behave. Plus it covers what happens when someone thinks they might have dementia, like going to the doctor and having tests done. The second leaflet was made to help family members and carers understand how to look after someone who has dementia and includes useful contact numbers and practical tips to help someone with dementia feel safe, healthy and happy.
The aims of the leaflets are to:
- Help people understand dementia signs
- Help people feel confident talking to a doctor
- Help people make plans for the future.
Find out more about the new resources on the Alzheimer’s Research UK website here.