Alzheimer's awareness essential for people of all ages

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Tue 23rd May 2006

North Down Alliance Councillor Ian James Parsley

North Down Alliance Councillor Ian James Parsley has said it is essential people of all ages are made aware of the reality of Alzheimer's.

Speaking after the AGM of the North Down/Ards Branch of the Alzheimer's Society, Cllr Parsley stated: "There remains a very real danger that Alzheimer's is seen as a stigma, and that families dealing with it have to keep it secret.

"It is essential that people know it is no one's fault when it strikes, and that there are strong support services available.

"The story of Alzheimer's is repeated for hundreds of families across Northern Ireland and across all age ranges. Regardless of party affiliation, we will continue to work with her to ensure the case for raising awareness of Alzheimer's and removing any stigma is represented in all levels of Government.

"Most of all, the fight for better research and better advisory services for sufferers of Alzheimer's and their families would be best made in a local Assembly right here in Northern Ireland. If the story of 17,000 sufferers across Northern Ireland is not enough to focus the minds of our politicians, they do not deserve to represent us."

ENDS