WE hear a lot about the term "dementia friendly" these days, with everyone from TV personalities to business leaders proclaiming that they have signed up to the pledge.

But, while much has been done to highlight dementia, and its impact on a growing older population, there continues to be a stigma linked to the condition, largely because of a lack of understanding. And for anyone who has been diagnosed with dementia, and their family, there are a lot of questions that need to be answered.

Next month a Dementia Community Roadshow arrives at Bradford, giving people chance to put questions to the experts and find out more about the condition.

The national tour, organised by the Alzheimer's Society, will be at City Park on Friday, August 7 and Saturday, August 8, from 10am to 4.30pm. The aim is raise awareness and understanding of the condition which affects approximately 5,500 people across the Bradford district. The roadshow will offer free information and advice, and will be promoting the benefits of an early diagnosis. It is open to people currently living with dementia, who are worried about a friend or relative’s memory or who just have questions about the condition. No appointment is needed.

Launched in 2011, the roadshow has reached more than 100,000 people nationwide so far.

Judith King, Yorkshire Operations Manager for the Alzheimer's Society, said: "Dementia is one of the biggest health and social care challenges of our generation, yet it continues to be a condition blighted with stigma and lack of understanding. This can mean that people who are worried about dementia in some way, or simply want to find out more, may not know where to turn.

"The Dementia Community Roadshow is the perfect way to get information and support out to the people who need it. We’re here to provide information about where to get help and encourage those with concerns about their memory to visit their GP."

The roadshow will be visiting areas that are taking steps in becoming Dementia Friendly Communities, allowing those living with dementia to be more inclusive within their community and to remain independent with choice and control over their lives.

Age UK is helping people take more control of their later years by preparing their home, enabling them to live independently for longer.

A fifth of people aged 60-69 have made adaptations to their home in preparation for older age, a new survey by Age UK Trading - the charity's social enterprise, specialising in products for older people, including mobility aids, independent living solutions and health care products - reveals. These 'future-proofers' are planning ahead in order to maintain their independence, with one in 10 saying wanting to manage on their own was the reason for carrying out the work.

Many of the 1,355 people surveyed however admitted it's not something they had thought about, with some admitting they don't want to think about getting old.

"Although it can seem daunting, making adaptations to your home is a way of maintaining independence, helping you stay in the home you love for longer," says Hugh Forde, managing director of Age UK Trading. "Adaptations can not only make your home an easier and more comfortable place to live, but can also be key to safety, reducing falls and accidents, and the subsequent cost of care and resources."

He adds: "Do your research. Speak to other people and get user recommendations, or read customer reviews of the product you're interested in. It's also worth speaking to your local council as you may be entitled to support."

He advises making the following changes: moving essential facilities, such as the toilet and bedroom, downstairs; easy reach storage; installing handrails and a stairlift; upgrading the bed to an adjustable one, providing the correct support; installing remote control lighting; installing a telecare system; and removing fall hazards such as clutter and loose rugs. If someone has dementia it's worth being aware of the impact flooring can have, for example shiny floors may appear wet or patterned carpets may be mistaken for holes in the ground.

* For more about Age UK's Adapting Your Home guide, call 0800 169 6565 or visit ageuk.org.uk.

* For more about the Dementia Community Roadshow visit alzheimers.org.uk/roadshow or contact the Bradford branch of the Alzheimer's Society on (01274) 586008.