Today (21st September 2010) is ‘World Alzheimer’s Day’, a day when people around the globe raise awareness of Alzheimer’s and related dementias.
Marking the importance of this day, Jim Wells MLA and Chair of the Stormont Health Committee got on board the Fold Brain Bus – a revolutionary mobile therapy unit from Fold Housing Association that is used to help those diagnosed with dementia throughout Northern Ireland.
The Fold Brain Bus contains leading-edge technology that helps to engage people with dementia through cognitive and physical exercises, which are proven to reduce depression, agitation and stress levels.
According to Eileen Askham, Director of Care Services, Fold Housing Association: “With over 19,000 people across the province affected by the disease, and numbers expected to rise, this year’s theme of ‘Dementia, it’s time for action!’ is increasingly important. Our aim in introducing the Brain Bus is to make a real difference to people with dementia – to help them maintain their independence, and give them more choice and control over their lives”
Next stop! The Fold Brain Bus will be visiting Lisburn city centre on Tuesday 28th September 2010 as part of Age Awareness Week. Everyone is welcome to come on board and try out the technology for themselves.