World Autism Awareness Week is a full seven days where schools, workplaces and individuals, their families and friends all over the UK are taking part in activities to raise money and awareness for The National Autistic Society.

They need the public’s support to raise vital funds to continue running campaigns like Too Much Information, training and sharing knowledge with professionals working with autistic people, and so much more.

Please go to their website at http://www.autism.org.uk/get-involved/world-autism-awareness-week/what-is-waaw.aspx to find out more about you can help.

According to research, the top ten fears of those aged over 65 include loss of independence (number one), declining health, running out of money, not being able to live at home, isolation, loneliness as well as a fear of falling.

We can all play a part in saving and improving lives by looking out for warning signs that an older person is at risk this winter.

You should watch out for signs a person is at risk. Is the home cold? Damp? Does the person have difficulties paying the heating bill? Do they have prescriptions for lung and heart conditions? Have they been sent to hospital for a fall in the past? Living rooms must be heated to 21C and bedrooms at 18C.

If you live in the Sunderland area and would like to know more about the support that Diamond PA can offer please contact us.

Scientists have warned a Parkinson’s disease pandemic is imminent, with cases of the disease more than doubling in just 25 years.

Research suggests it is now the world’s fastest growing neurological disorder – ahead of dementia – and shows no signs of slowing.

There are now an estimated 6.9 million people living with Parkinson’s worldwide and, by 2040, the number is expected to increase to 14.2 million.

They claim this growing pandemic is due to under-reporting, misdiagnosis and increasing life expectancy and argue that the medical community should pursue the same strategies that, in 15 years, transformed HIV from an unknown and fatal illness into a highly treatable chronic condition.

Parkinson’s disease, is a neurological condition in which parts of the brain become progressively damaged over the years.

The three main symptoms of Parkinson’s disease are involuntary shaking of particular parts of the body, slow movement, and stiff and inflexible muscles. A wide range of other physical and psychological symptoms can be experienced, including: depression, balance problems, insomnia and memory problems.

If you require support for a family member with Parkinsons and live in the Sunderland area, please get in touch with us to discuss how we can help.