Free Brain Health and Dementia Awareness Event Coming to Carrick-on-Shannon
Maintaining cognitive health is a lifelong journey, yet many of us don’t know where to start or how to support loved ones facing cognitive decline. To bridge this gap, the HSE and Boots Ireland are bringing a vital community resource to Co. Leitrim. A free “Let’s talk about dementia and brain health” event is scheduled to take place in Carrick-on-Shannon, offering residents a chance to gain expert insights and practical tools for brain wellness.
- Date: May 20th
- Time: 6:30 PM
- Location: Boots, Carrick on Shannon Shopping Centre, Co. Leitrim
- Cost: Free (Ticketed)
What to Expect from the Workshop
This isn’t just a lecture; it’s a one-hour interactive workshop designed to inspire, and inform. The session brings together healthcare professionals and individuals personally affected by dementia to share a balanced perspective on the condition. Attendees will explore the nuances of dementia and, more importantly, the proactive steps anyone can take to maintain their brain health.
Beyond individual wellness, the event focuses on community support. Participants will learn practical strategies to create a more supportive environment for those living with dementia, ensuring they can navigate their communities with dignity and ease.
A Long-Term Commitment to Dementia Inclusion
This event is part of a larger, nationwide series driven by the HSE’s Dementia: Understand Together campaign. The partnership between Boots and the HSE dates back to 2016, focusing on making retail spaces and local neighborhoods more dementia-inclusive through specialized staff training and public outreach.
Fiona Foley, Senior Project Manager with the HSE’s National Dementia Services, highlighted the importance of these collaborations. “We are grateful to Boots for organising these events for the local community, and to be invited to speak about these important topics,” Foley stated. She noted that the initiative demonstrates a commitment to helping people understand how to reduce their personal risk of developing dementia and building “dementia inclusive communities.”
Why Brain Health Matters Now
As a physician, overstate the importance of early intervention and lifestyle modifications. Brain health isn’t just about the absence of disease; it’s about optimizing cognitive reserve. While some risk factors for dementia are genetic, many are modifiable. Engaging in community discussions like the one in Carrick-on-Shannon helps demystify the condition and encourages people to take ownership of their neurological well-being.
How to Attend
While the event is free, it is ticketed to ensure a quality experience for all attendees. You can reserve your place online via the official Boots dementia roadshow website.
Key Takeaways for Attendees
- Expert Guidance: Hear directly from healthcare professionals about brain health.
- Lived Experience: Gain perspective from those personally affected by dementia.
- Risk Reduction: Learn actionable steps to lower your personal risk of cognitive decline.
- Community Action: Discover how to better support neighbors and family members living with dementia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should attend this event?
The workshop is open to everyone—whether you’re a caregiver, someone worried about their own brain health, or a community member who wants to be more supportive of those with dementia.
Is the event really free?
Yes, the event is free of charge, though you must book a ticket in advance to secure your spot.
What is the “Dementia: Understand Together” campaign?
It is an HSE initiative aimed at increasing understanding of dementia across Ireland and fostering inclusive environments where people with the condition feel supported and understood.