Dementia charity offers firework advice for Surrey

The Alzheimer's Society has issued advise to Surrey residents ahead of bonfire night

A charity has issued advice for keeping Surrey's residents with dementia safe on bonfire night.

The Alzheimher's Society said firework displays ahead of 5 November can be challenging for the 18,900 people with the disease in the region.

Regional manager Carrie Holmes said planning ahead is key to keeping loved ones with dementia feeling safe and able to enjoy the night too.

She said: "Being inclusive of people living with dementia and keeping them safe around or from fireworks is incredibly important."

She said relatives or friends of people with dementia can check with neighbours to see what they have planned for Guy Fawkes' night.

It is also good to talk to the person with dementia to let them know the day is coming up and gauge their feelings about it, the charity said.

Some people may want to avoid the event altogether and go somewhere else while others would like to be involved.

Ms Holmes said: "Keeping [them] involved in festivities can help maintain their quality of life.”

Plan B

There are dementia-friendly ways to attend a fireworks display, including low-noise displays.

The charity recommends a professional event where strict fire and safety regulations are in place .

Things to watch out for at displays are making sure your loved one is warm enough, that hot drinks are not too hot and have a plan B if it gets too much.

An alternative to attending an outdoor event is to watch fireworks on television or arrange a bonfire night dinner.

Films, audiobooks and music are good activities for someone who is distressed by fireworks.