September is traditionally a time of year that brings people together. The month’s Irish-language name, Meán Fómhair, refers literally to the ancient communal practice of bringing in the harvest. September sees new friendships forged and old ones renewed as schools and universities reconvene, and parents and grandparents breathe a sigh of relief. For many shedders, September means a welcome return to new challenges and familiar faces at their local shed.

Since 2012, September has also functioned as World Alzheimer’s Month. As part of its Sheds for Life initiative, the Irish Men’s Sheds Association has partnered with the HSE’s Dementia: Understand Together campaign to dispel some of the myths around both Alzheimer’s disease and the broader issue of dementia. It’s an issue that touches many shedders, whether through direct personal experience or the experiences of loved ones.

Approximately 18,000 men are living with dementia in Ireland, the majority of whom are living in our communities. Many thousands more men are caring for loved ones who have been diagnosed with the condition.

Dementia is an umbrella term to describe a set of symptoms that occur when brain cells stop working properly. Although Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, the term encompasses at least 400 distinct conditions. Dementia often develops slowly, over the course of several years. One of the earliest signs is usually having trouble remembering recent events.

Although, as noted above, dementia usually affects people as they get older, it is by no means a “normal” or inevitable part of ageing. In fact, nine out of 10 older people don’t develop dementia. A lot of people mature into their 80s and 90s without any major memory decline.

While, at its earliest stages, dementia can be confused with regular, age-related forgetfulness, its effects on memory are more pronounced. It can progress from struggling with everyday tasks to having difficulty dressing, bathing, walking or recognising family members and other familiar faces. However, it’s important to stress that every case of dementia is different and no two men will experience exactly the same symptoms.

Although dementia is more common in people over 65, younger people can also develop dementia. This is known as early or younger-onset dementia. Most of those affected by early onset dementia are in their 40s or 50s – family history and genetics may play a role in this.

So, how can Irish men reduce their risk? A growing body of evidence suggests that a healthy, active lifestyle may help maintain good brain health. Simply following good lifestyle habits can potentially reduce your risk of dementia; regular exercise, eating healthily, controlling high blood pressure, cutting down on alcohol and cutting out cigarettes can all make a difference.

As every shedder knows, an active mind is a huge asset when it comes to maintaining our wellbeing, particularly as we age. Keeping active and alert by meeting new people and trying new things can also potentially lower your risk of dementia.

Dementia: Understand Together is a public support, awareness and information campaign led by the HSE, working with The Alzheimer Society of Ireland and Genio, that aims to inspire people from all sections of society to stand together with the 500,000 Irish people whose families have been affected by dementia.

For more information on dementia, and the services and supports available, Freephone 1800-341 341 or visit www.understandtogether.ie. And, remember, the Irish Men’s Sheds Association’s website malehealth.ie can also help you find out more about dementia and related conditions. Simply visit www.malehealth.ie and navigate to the Head section. CL