Take steps for brain health and support a Dementia Friendly Richmond

This Dementia Action Week (19 to 25 May), we are proud to join with local partners to raise awareness about dementia, highlight steps residents can take to reduce their risk and promote the support available for people living with dementia and those who care for them.

Many of us know someone affected by dementia. However, research shows that many people are unaware of the everyday actions they can take to help lower their risk. In fact, evidence suggests that up to a third of the most common forms of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, could be prevented or delayed through simple lifestyle changes. 

Dementia Action Week is a chance for everyone to learn more about the small steps that support long-term brain health, like keeping blood pressure in check, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol and looking after our hearing. 

That’s why we are working alongside partners like Age UK Richmond and the Alzheimer’s Society to support a week of free events, expert advice and community activities – all aimed at helping residents take charge of their brain health while building a more dementia-friendly borough. 

Pop-up Dementia Information Day and health bus 

On Tuesday 20 May, Age UK Richmond is hosting a free Dementia Information Day at Patch in Twickenham (42 York Street, TW1 3LJ). Pop in for tea, cake and a chat with local healthcare professionals about dementia, how to support someone with the condition, get to know the work of Dementia Friendly Communities Richmond and what a dementia-inclusive borough could look like to you. 

Check the event schedule to plan your visit.

Just around the corner from the Age UK offices, our health bus will be stationed outside York House from 10am to 3pm, with friendly advisors and a local pharmacist offering practical advice and one-to-one support to help you reduce your risk of dementia. Services include: 

• Free NHS Health Checks (for eligible residents aged 40 to 74)
• Blood pressure checks and personalised advice 
• Support to stop smoking with one-to-one help from our Stop Smoking Service
• Alcohol guidance using tools like Richmond Drink Checker
• Hearing health tips and access to free online hearing checks 

Can’t make it on Tuesday? The health bus will also be out on Wednesday 21 May, outside Sainsbury’s on Lower Richmond Road (TW9 4LT).

More community events and support

Throughout the week beginning 19 May, residents can take part in a wide range of local events, including memory cafes, carer training sessions, talks, walks and social gatherings. These activities are designed to ensure that people affected by dementia feel welcomed, connected and supported. 

View the event schedule on Age UK Richmond’s website to see the full programme.

Working toward a Dementia Friendly Richmond

Becoming a more dementia-friendly borough means more than just raising awareness. It’s about creating a community where people living with dementia and those who care for them feel understood, welcomed, supported and included in everyday life. 

Find out more about the ongoing work of Dementia Friendly Communities Richmond, a Council-supported initiative coordinated by Age UK Richmond, which works with local people, organisations and businesses committed to making our borough more accessible and inclusive. 

You can also learn about lowering your risk of dementia through healthy lifestyle choices.