Darlington MP Alan Milburn has shown his support for people with dementia and their carers across the borough in the run-up to Alzheimer's Awareness Week, which starts on Monday. It will focus on younger people and the impact of dementia.
Mr Milburn said: "We all need to understand that dementia is caused by a disease of the brain and is not a normal part of ageing. We must help everyone, whatever their age, cope with the impact of dementia."
More than 835 people in Darlington have dementia and more than three times that number are affected by the consequences.
The Alzheimer's Society, which marks its 25th anniversary this year, will use the week to help children and younger people understand what dementia is and how to cope around people who are affected with the disease.
The society has produced information for children, including a video of youngsters talking about dementia in the family, which will be shown in schools.
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