Tonge Supports Alzheimer's Awareness Week

12.50.06pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 3rd Jul 2003

Jenny Tonge MP for Richmond Park

Jenny Tonge MP, today, expressed support for people with dementia and their carers in Richmond Park, in the run up to Alzheimer's Awareness Week, which will run from 6 - 12th July 2003.

Jenny Tonge MP: "Over 965 people in my Constituency suffer from Alzheimer's or another form of dementia, with more than three times that number affected by the consequences.

This is why I am particularly keen to support the work of the Alzheimer's Society. It is important to realise that certain practical steps can be taken to try to lower the risk of people developing such conditions, and it is this aspect that I am particularly keen to promote during the awareness week.

"Currently dementia affects one in five people over the age of 80. This is an appalling figure which is why I believe it is important to educate people about what steps they can take to protect their health."

"If you are interested in what can be done to reduce the risk of dementia than please call the Alzheimer's Society helpline on 0845 300 0336."