New research out this week reveals people with dementia still benefit from visits from friends, family or carers – despite 42% of the general public believing that if their loved ones can no longer recognise them, the visits are worthless.

After Christmas, people with dementia and their carers may face long, dark days ahead until they next spend time socialising or getting out of the house.

The Alzheimer's Society is calling on people to make a positive New Year's resolution to spend time with relatives who suffer with the disease, and help them take part in activities they enjoy, in order to keep connected.

Amazingly, they say that dementia patients will still hold an 'emotional memory', allowing them to continue to feel happy long after a visit or experience that they may have forgotten. Spending time with loved ones is important because it can stimulate these emotional feelings of familiarity, happiness, comfort and security.

A recent survey by the Alzheimer’s Society shows that 54% of people affected by dementia were no longer taking part in social activities. Almost half said that what would help people with dementia most to stay connected is seeing family and friends more often.

The lack of awareness of how important emotional memory is to dementia patients unfortunately may mean that over half of people living with dementia are left isolated.

Jeremy Hughes, Chief Executive of Alzheimer's Society, said:

'After spending time with friends and family over the festive period, New Year can be a bleak and lonely time for people with dementia and their carers. It's so important for people with dementia to feel connected throughout the year. Spending time with loved ones and taking part in meaningful activities can have a powerful and positive impact, even if they don't remember the event itself. We're urging people to get in touch with us and find out how we can help you stay connected.'

If you, or anyone you know, could benefit from regular companionship visits from our dedicated team of care staff please give us a call today on 01420 769658 or visit our facebook page www.facebook.com/careinhampshire