Dementia arrives on Albert Square

Tonight (12th December) Sylvie, the Carters' missing matriarch, arrives on The Square - and it’s revealed she is living with Alzheimer’s disease.

By 2015, 850,000 people will have dementia in the UK and 62 per cent of those, like Sylvie, will have Alzheimer’s. Many believe dementia means losing your memory to the point where you do not recognise loved ones. Most don’t know that dementia can set in long before it becomes severe and early signs can be as unassuming as losing the thread of a conversation.

As part of the research for the storyline, Alzheimer’s Society ran a Dementia Friends session for the EastEnders script writers and editors. They spent an afternoon understanding more about the condition and learning about small things people could do, both in Walford, and outside of it, to help people living with dementia in the community.

“We’re thrilled to have helped EastEnders develop Sylvie’s storyline," says Jeremy Hughes, Chief Executive at the Alzheimer’s Society. "Dementia can be very different from person to person, so working out how Sylvie will realistically react to situations and making sure the stigma and misconceptions around dementia are avoided was very important.”

“Too often it is assumed that people with dementia can’t live well. In reality, most carry on going about their daily lives and want to feel included - sometimes they just need a helping hand to do so."

Jeremy added: ‘Dementia is progressive, caused when the brain is damaged by diseases, meaning the symptoms will gradually get worse. Many who haven’t got the help and support they need, struggle. Alzheimer’s Society is always here to give help and advice. Whilst Sylvie is currently being cared for by Babe, it’s important to keep a close eye on both their needs so carer and cared for can both live well.”

If you are worried about your memory or want to find out more information on dementia visit www.alzheimers.org.uk or call the Alzheimer's Society National Dementia Helpline 0300 222 1122. To become a Dementia Friend visit: www.dementiafriends.org.uk