‘Open discussion’ the first step: Campaign focuses on dementia, Alzheimer’s

DENVER (KDVR) — Those who are affected by dementia and Alzheimer’s disease know the extreme difficulties that can come with the situation. It can be a frustrating thing for those experiencing the disease themselves and for loved ones in their lives.

To help bring awareness to treatment, prevention, and acceptance of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has announced the new, “Talk About Dementia” campaign.

The campaign encourages Coloradans who may be experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia to try and speak with their loved ones and health specialists as early as they can so a treatment plan can be put into effect as quickly as possible.

The earlier signs of dementia are reported, the quicker health professionals can detect it and this allows for greater participation in care for those experiencing the effects.

“Open discussion about these issues is the first step,” said Jill Hunsaker Ryan, CDPHE’s executive director, in a release. “It can lead to better outcomes and more collaboration to support and honor those who are aging in our community.”

A social media campaign has been launched that will link users to the, “Talk About Dementia” website where they can access resources that can help them learn about dementia, how to detect early signs of dementia, and the benefits of early treatment.

For those who are inexperienced or unaware of what dementia can look like, the campaign will also be releasing 10 warning signs of dementia that people can apply to see if they or their loved ones are affected by the disease.

While early detection is important, CDPHE wants to remind those that the best practice is prevention. Promoting brain health is a central component of this campaign, and people are encouraged to take steps to prevent poor brain health.

Preventative steps for poor brain health:

• Manage diabetes
• Treat hearing loss
• Quit the use of tobacco products
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Protect your head
• Get enough sleep
• Stay engaged socially

“The things we can do to reduce our risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia are straightforward. In fact, many overlap with steps we can take to support our overall health and wellness,” said Joanna Espinoza Robbins, Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias program manager at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. “The bottom line is that we have more control than we might think when it comes to preventing and addressing dementia.”

The “Talk About Dementia” campaign is the beginning of a five-year plan to reduce the impact the disease can have on Coloradans, with a greater emphasis on those disproportionately affected by the disease which includes: American Indian and Alaska Natives, Black, and Hispanic populations.

Coloradans experiencing dementia can find a plan that can help reduce risk, detect signs earlier, diagnose, and help educate them about the effects of dementia.

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