Breaking the Stigma: How Alzheimer Scotland Supports Families
The Long Goodbye with Graeme SutherlandShow Notes
In this episode of The Long Goodbye, Graeme sits down with Jim Pearson, Deputy Chief Executive of Alzheimer Scotland, to explore the vital support available for people living with dementia and the families who care for them. Drawing from both professional expertise and personal experience, this honest conversation tackles the challenges of getting a diagnosis, the importance of post-diagnostic support, and why no one should have to navigate dementia alone. You'll hear about Alzheimer Scotland's 24/7 helpline, dementia advisors, support groups, community activities, brain health initiatives, and the charity's ongoing fight for better dementia care across Scotland. The discussion also highlights the crucial role of unpaid carers, the importance of Power of Attorney, and the need to break down the stigma surrounding dementia. Key Highlights What Alzheimer Scotland does and how it supports families across Scotland Why getting a dementia diagnosis can be difficult, especially for younger people The importance of post-diagnostic support and why many families still miss out Practical advice on Power of Attorney and future planning How dementia cafés, support groups and activities help people stay connected The realities faced by unpaid carers and families Dementia prevention, brain health and current research developments How to access support, advice and emergency help when you need it most This episode discusses dementia, diagnosis, caring responsibilities, and the emotional impact these experiences can have on individuals and families. If anything raised in this conversation affects you, support is available.
Alzheimer Scotland Dementia Helpline (24 hours): 0808 808 3000 Website: www.alzscot.org Email: [email protected] The Alzheimer Scotland Dementia Helpline provides confidential information, emotional support, and practical advice for anyone affected by dementia, including family members, carers, friends, and people living with a diagnosis.
More from The Long Goodbye with Graeme Sutherland
In this episode of The Long Goodbye, Graeme is joined by Angela, a home care provider who played a significant role in supporting his family during their dementia journey. Together, they discuss the realities of introducing home care into the family home, the emotional challenges of accepting support, and the guilt many carers feel when they realise they can't do everything alone. Graeme reflects on his family's experience of navigating council services, finding the right care provider, and learning to trust others with his mum's care. The conversation also explores what quality home care should look like, the importance of person-centred care, how carers support entire families rather than just individuals, and why asking for help is often one of the bravest decisions a family can make. Key Highlights Why families often wait too long before seeking support. The emotional impact of introducing carers into the family home. Graeme's experiences with both poor and excellent home care services. What person-centred home care really looks like. How carers support not only the person with dementia but their entire family. The importance of care plans, trust, continuity, and communication. Social support, companionship, and helping people remain active and connected. Knowing when home care is no longer enough and a care home may be needed. Practical advice on finding reputable care providers and navigating available funding. Recognition of the vital role unpaid carers play every day. This episode shines a spotlight on one of the most overlooked parts of the dementia journey: accepting help. It's an honest conversation about home care, caregiver burnout, trust, and how the right support can transform life for both the person living with dementia and their family.
This is a deeply personal first episode that sets the foundation for the entire podcast. It's honest, emotional, funny, and gives listeners a real-world insight into what it's actually like to care for a parent with young-onset dementia.
Launching Sunday 20th September. The Long Goodbye is a podcast for anyone whose life has been touched by Alzheimer's disease or dementia. Hosted by Graeme Sutherland, the series brings together personal stories, expert insight and honest conversations with families, carers, advocates and healthcare professionals who understand the realities of living with dementia. Inspired by Graeme's own family's journey following his mum's Alzheimer's diagnosis at just 59 years old, the podcast explores the challenges, emotions and questions that so many families face every day.