LEADERS in Wirral are reminding residents about the services available that could help reduce the risk of developing dementia in later life.

Latest figures suggest that around 3,220 residents have been diagnosed with dementia and the borough is set to mirror national figures with an increase in the number of people being diagnosed.

However as part of Dementia Action Week, which runs until May 26, Wirral's public health team are encouraging residents to make positive lifestyle changes to reduce their risk of developing dementia.

Acting director for health and wellbeing Julie Webster said: “Dementia is a growing issue worldwide as well as in Wirral, with diagnoses expected to rise in coming years.

"But that’s not to say that we can’t stem the rising tide of dementia by making changes that will improve our lives overall, while also preventing dementia.”

Here is the full list of services that could help:

  • The Active 10 app – a free movement tracking app available to Wirral residents. Active 10 encourages 10 minute periods of ‘brisk walking’, which believe it or not, counts as vigorous exercise. Download the Active 10 app here.
  • Wirral’s outdoor gyms – Wirral has 12 outdoor gyms, all with a great choice of equipment designed to keep you fit for free. Find your nearest outdoor gym here.
  • Not able to get out and about? Stay cool and focus on flexibility with an online yoga video. Try Youtube’s ‘Yoga with Adriene’ as a beginner’s guide to yoga at home here.
  • ABL Health – Wirral’s stop smoking service, available to support you at whatever point during your journey to becoming an ex-smoker. Visit their website here
  • Wirral Ways – Wirral’s free and confidential drug and alcohol service, for those who have concerns about their drug or alcohol use. Visit their website here.

For information on how to get support if you, a loved one or someone you care for are living with dementia, visit

https://www.ageuk.org.uk/wirral/