Alzheimer’s Society’s research shows that many people are worried about ‘saying the wrong thing’ to people living with dementia. And despite almost all of us knowing someone affected, two-thirds of people living with dementia report feeling isolated and lonely.

That’s why this Dementia Action Week (20th - 26th May), they're encouraging everyone to take action by starting a conversation with someone living with dementia they know; whether it’s calling a relative with dementia or visiting a neighbour, it’s time to start talking.

The Alzheimer's Society understand that it can be difficult to know what to say. Therefore they teamed up with people affected by dementia to give you the best tips for getting a conversation started:

•  ‘Talk to me, smile, be a little patient and give me time to reply.’ 
• 'A simple ‘hello’, ask about the weather, anything that you feel comfortable with.’
• 'Just be yourself and yes, we will make mistakes but it’s ok to laugh along with us.’
• 'I love it when people ask me questions. It gives me an opportunity to show that people with dementia exist, that we can still contribute to things going on around us and that life goes on. It makes me feel good. It makes me feel like me again'
• 'Just don’t ask if I remember.’
• 'Don’t be afraid. All it takes is a conversation to see we’re still us.’

If you’re still unsure on how to get the conversation started, follow the link and learn more, make sure to watch the video 'Kids Interview People with Dementia' - www.alzheimers.org.uk