RESIDENTS are being urged by the Alzheimer’s Society to visit their GP if they are worried about memory problems as calls to its helpline have surged by one third after Christmas.

The charity has started the New Year by sending out “Worried about your memory?” information leaflets to GP surgeries in Bury, and a total of 9,000 across the country, to help raise public awareness and ensure the right support is available.

Hazel Bayley, operations manager for Alzheimer’s Society in the North West, said: ‘Many of the calls to the national dementia helpline have come from worried relatives, who may have seen relatives or friends for the first time in months and noticed changes in behaviour.

“I would urge anyone who has noticed changes in a family member or friend this Christmas or their own memory to visit their GP and seek advice as soon as they can.

Dementia describes a set of symptoms that may include memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problem-solving or language. Dementia is caused when the brain is damaged by diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease or a series of strokes. Dementia is progressive, which means the symptoms will gradually get worse.

  • The Alzheimer’s Society national dementia helpline number is 0300 222 1122.