Actress Pauline Quirke’s dementia diagnosis was announced by her husband Paul Sheen today, January 21. The Birds of Feather actress was diagnosed with dementia back in 2021, but will now retire from “all professional and commercial duties”.
In a statement, he said: “It is with a heavy heart that I announce my wife Pauline’s decision to step back from all professional and commercial duties due to her diagnosis of dementia in 2021.
“Pauline has been an inspiration through her work in the film and TV industry, her charity endeavours and as the founder of the very successful Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts (PQA).
“Her talent, dedication and vision have touched countless lives, and will continue to do so through the legacy of her work and through PQA where her vision and guidance has facilitated many young people’s progression and interest in the arts, and enhanced their self-confidence.”
But what are the symptoms of dementia, and what should you do if you spot them?
According to the NHS website, different types of dementia can affect people differently, and everyone will experience symptoms in their own way.
However some early signs to look out for include:
- memory loss
- difficulty concentrating
- finding it hard to carry out familiar daily tasks
- struggling to follow a conversation or find the right word
- being confused about time and place
- mood changes
These symptoms are usually mild to begin with, but may worsen over time. These symptoms alone are not enough for a dementia diagnosis, and is instead often termed “mild cognitive impairment” (MCI). However, the NHS warns that people diagnosed with MCI can go on to develop dementia.
If you’ve having problems with your memory, or are struggling with the other symptoms mentioned, it is advised you see a GP as soon as possible.
Dementia is most commonly caused by Alzheimer’s disease, symptoms of Alzheimer’s is similar to the early signs of dementia.
Common symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease include:
- memory problems, such as regularly forgetting recent events, names and faces
- asking repetitive questions
- increasing difficulties with tasks and activities that require organisation and planning
- becoming confused in unfamiliar environments
- difficulty finding the right words
- difficulty with numbers and/or handling money in shops
- becoming more withdrawn or anxious
Research shows there are more than 944,000 people in the UK who have dementia, and 1 in 11 people over the age of 65 have dementia.