Wandsworth Council marks World Alzheimer’s Month with support for residents living with dementia

As of 2025, it is estimated that approximately 982,000 people are living with dementia in the UK. This figure includes both diagnosed and undiagnosed cases, as more than a third of people with dementia do not currently have a formal diagnosis.

As part of World Alzheimer’s Month, Wandsworth Council is also encouraging residents to think about their hearing health. Hearing loss isn’t just a natural part of ageing; it can add to the challenges of memory problems. Regular hearing checks are important. Untreated adult onset hearing difficulties may lead to isolation, fatigue, or confusion, so although hearing aids can’t prevent dementia, they do improve communication, social engagement, and quality of life. Be sure to get your hearing checked today.

At the heart of our dementia support for residents, there is the Specialist Dementia Service at Gwynneth Morgan Day Centre, a purpose-built space for leisure, recreation and wellbeing and includes an interactive projector that provides games, music and tranquil backgrounds run by Age UK Wandsworth and commissioned by the council. 

Alongside this, community initiatives are thriving across the borough. As part of London Borough of Culture, funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, Memory Boxes for Dementia will bring Wandsworth’s heritage collection into care homes and community spaces. Each themed box is filled with sensory objects and recordings to spark memories, encourage conversation, and support wellbeing. 

Boxes will be bookable for free, for a maximum of 15 days at a time, you can book here.  

Cllr Graeme Henderson, Wandsworth Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Community Safety, said:

“Groups like Forget-Me-Not and specialist services like Age UK Wandsworth’s dementia day centre are vital to ensuring people with dementia and their loved ones feel supported.

Many of us know individuals and families affected by dementia, so it’s essential there are spaces where people can connect, share experiences and find out about help available locally. As a council, we are committed to reducing stigma, raising awareness, and supporting quality of life.”

Should you wish to become a Community Partner to run reminiscence sessions using our Heritage Boxes for Dementia, please contact heritagecollection@wandsworth.gov.uk.

What is dementia?
Dementia is a term for a range of progressive brain disorders, the most common being Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia. Symptoms include memory loss, reduced reasoning and communication skills, and challenges with everyday activities. Some people may also experience depression, anxiety, or changes in behaviour.
Dementia mainly affects people over 65, but younger people can develop it too.

Reducing your risk
Evidence shows that healthy lifestyle choices may reduce the risk of dementia:
•    Eating a balanced diet
•    Staying physically active
•    Controlling diabetes and high blood pressure
•    Avoiding smoking
•    Reducing alcohol consumption

Click here for information about dementia, prevention, and local support.