Top speakers for dementia conference

Popular BBC Three counties presenter Toby Friedner – who hosts the station’s weekly disability and mental health programme, Shrink Wrapped – will open the event on Tuesday, March 26.

It aims to raise awareness of the condition and promote the various types of support available.

Stroke victim Larry Gardiner will talk about his progress since being diagnosed with vascular dementia.

Another keynote speaker is psychiatrist Dr Johan Schoeman who specialises in mental health in the elderly.

There will also be advice on managing eating and drinking difficulties as well as problem behaviour.

Interactive sessions during the day will include students asking people who care for family members with dementia how services could be improved to ensure a better quality of life.

Spokeswoman Pam Garraway said: “The event is open to everyone who has an interest in dementia, whether they’re professional or have a family member or friend with the condition.”

The conference will conclude with a panel of social care and health experts answering questions from the floor.
It has been organised by the Luton Dementia Strategy Group, in partnership with the University’s Centre for Development of Social Care Practice. It will be held in Room A004 from 10am to 3.30pm.

> To book call 01582 743372.