A NEW CAMPAIGN has been launched to challenge the stigma surrounding dementia.

Run by the Scottish Government in partnership with COSLA, the drive encourages people to continue doing the things they always did with loved ones diagnosed with the syndrome.

These everyday activities can help people with dementia stay well for longer.

There are a range of opportunities in Fife for people to get involved in.

In the Lochgelly Centre, there is a weekly musical reminiscence group called Musical Memories Lochgelly. Their sessions promote health and wellbeing through light movement to music and musical bingo.

Jukebox Days is held in Cardenden’s Bowhill Community Centre. It gives people the chance to listen to some themed music. It takes place on the fourth Thursday of every month.  

READ MORE: Ribbon tribute to mark Baby Loss Awareness Week

There is also the Bums Off Seats, Fife Walking Initiative. Led by a trained team, the walks are suitable for most people, including those with a long-term health condition. There are walks in Dalgety Bay, Dunfermline, Aberdour, Inverkeithing, and Rosyth.

Finally, there is Head For Art in Dunfermline Abbey. This takes place weekly on Mondays and is a free community-based art group for those living in the city with dementia. It provides respite for carers and fun activities for participants.

Dementia affects an estimated 90,000 people in Scotland, 3,000 of whom are under the age of 65.

Created in collaboration with a National Dementia Lived Experience Panel, the Rethink Dementia campaign emphasises the importance of maintaining relationships with those living with dementia.

Research has shown that making this effort to stay in contact with individuals and include them in activities can help alleviate symptoms of depression, agitation, sleep disturbance, anxiety and apathy.