ADVICE for those living with dementia and their carers, has become available at Colwyn Bay library as part of a Wales wide scheme.

The community based dementia initiative is called Reading Well Books on Prescription for Dementia.

The launch coincides with National Libraries Week which takes place between October 8 and 13 and celebrates the nation’s libraries with this year’s focus being on wellbeing. Libraries across the country will show how they bring communities together, combat loneliness, provide a space for reading and creativity and support people with their mental health.

Cheryl Williams, library services manager said: “The Reading Well Books on Prescription for Dementia initiative provides books giving information, advice and support for living well, advice for relatives and carers and personal stories. They are endorsed by medical professionals.

“Titles are available through the medium of Welsh.”

Cheryl added: “The National Libraries Week gives an opportunity to display the range of services which libraries provide to support the well being of our communities: ranging from shared reading sessions, self help books, basic IT advice and guidance. Local family history research and story time sessions for parents and children.”

Clwyd West AM Darren Millar joined staff to mark the start of the library’s initiative which provides an expertly curated range of books to public libraries, aimed at fostering a better understanding of dementia.

The collection includes information and advice for people living with the condition and for their carers, as well as those who may be concerned about their memory. The books include titles of fiction, memoir and photographic books for reminiscence therapy. Health professionals can recommend books using the leaflets.

Darren said: “This is a fantastic project which will be of huge benefit to those with dementia. Raising awareness of dementia and creating a better understanding of it in any way we can, is essential to ensure those living with the condition are treated with the care and respect they deserve.

“The books will also be of great benefit to people with dementia and I urge anyone with memory problems, or concerned about a loved one’s memory, to pop along to the library.”