New Guide Helps Financial Institutions Become Dementia-friendly

Bluebird Care blog  New guide helps financial institutions become dementia-friendly   Many of us find managing our finances tricky, especially when it comes to understanding loan agreements, insurance policies… or even just remembering passwords.

Bluebird Care blog
 
New guide helps financial institutions become dementia-friendly
 
Many of us find managing our finances tricky, especially when it comes to understanding loan agreements, insurance policies… or even just remembering passwords.
 
So imagine what it’s like for someone living with dementia. For them, navigating complex financial documents can be a nightmare.
 
In worst case scenarios, people with dementia or their carers have been cut off from their bank, unable to manage their finances.
 
But it doesn’t have to be this way. There are steps financial institutions can take to make life easier for them.
 
It requires a greater awareness of how dementia affects people, and a willingness to make reasonable adjustments to accommodate their needs.
 
Simplifying language and communications, providing more user-friendly self-service machines, and making it easier for someone who has Power of Attorney to open and operate accounts are just some of the measures businesses could introduce.
 
This is why Alzheimer’s Society has launched a Dementia-Friendly Finance and Insurance Guide, which has been supported by TV presenter and founder of MoneySavingExpert.com Martin Lewis.
 
Martin said: “Life does not end with a diagnosis of dementia. By allowing those diagnosed to manage their finances without worry, or by helping those helping them, they can be supported to live well for as long as possible.”
 
The guide also offers businesses advice on how best to support employees who have been diagnosed with dementia.
 
Contrary to what many people believe, people living with the condition can still make a valuable contribution in the workplace, given the right support.
 
 
For more information about Alzheimer’s Society’s free Dementia-Friendly Finance and Insurance Guide, visit www.alzheimers.org.uk/finance


 

• Ken Oxley is Media Officer for Alzheimer’s Society in the North East and Cumbria. 

 
 
Notes to editors:

• Alzheimer's Society is the UK's leading dementia charity. We provide information and support, fund research, campaign to improve care and create lasting change for people affected by dementia in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
• Dementia devastates lives. Alzheimer’s Society research shows that 850,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia. By 2021, 1 million people will be living with the condition. This will soar to two million by 2051.
• Dementia deaths are rising year on year and 225,000 will develop dementia this year - that’s one every three minutes.
• Dementia costs the UK economy over £26 billion per year. This is the equivalent of more than £30,000 per person with dementia. 
• Alzheimer’s Society funds research into the cause, care, cure and prevention of all types of dementia and has committed to spend at least £150 million on research over the next decade. This includes a £50 million investment in the UK's first dedicated Dementia Research Institute.
• Until the day we find a cure, Alzheimer's Society will be here for anyone affected by dementia - wherever they are, whatever they're going through. Everything we do is informed and inspired by them.
• Let's take on dementia together. Volunteer. Donate. Campaign for change. Whatever you do, unite with us against dementia. 
• Alzheimer’s Society relies on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0330 333 0804 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk.  
• Alzheimer’s Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0300 222 11 22 or visit alzheimers.org.uk  
• Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @Alzheimerssoc
• Like us on Facebook
• Alzheimer’s Society YouTube channel www.youtube.com/AlzheimersSociety