An Oldham couple have spoken openly about their experience with early onset dementia in a bid to encourage others to seek help and support as soon as symptoms appear.

Andy Cragg, 64, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2024, but his wife Saki first noticed changes in his behaviour almost a decade earlier. She recalled how she became concerned in 2015 after Andy suffered an injury and faced difficulties at work.

"At home, I started to notice Andy asking the same questions repeatedly," Saki said. "He’d ask our children how their day had been several times during tea. Even they noticed. They were only 10 and 12."

She also described how Andy began misplacing belongings, forgetting his wallet and PIN number, and seemed quieter and more anxious than usual. "He just seemed quieter, not himself. He was more anxious, low in mood, and finding it hard to concentrate," she added.

After initially visiting their GP in 2020, Andy was treated for anxiety and depression because dementia was not suspected at his age. Further assessments in 2023 eventually led to a diagnosis of early onset Alzheimer’s the following year.

The diagnosis came through the Oldham memory assessment service, run by Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust. Following this, Andy was able to access support from Dr Kershaw's Hospice and Age UK Oldham, both vital local resources for families facing dementia.

Saki admitted that receiving the diagnosis felt overwhelming at first. "I felt so alone, like my life had ended. Our mortgage was due to end, and we had been planning holidays, it felt like it was all gone," she said.

However, support from an admiral nurse provided crucial guidance on financial matters, medication, and understanding the help available. "In the beginning I didn’t know where to go for help. I met the admiral nurse who helped lots, with advice on where to go for financial support, advice about my worries or about medication," Saki explained.

She also praised the dementia hub at Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, describing it as a lifeline. "The dementia hub at Dr Kershaw’s has been brilliant. It’s a place where you feel you belong, a place where people help. When I get to the gates, I feel happiness. It’s a safe, happy place," she said.

Andy emphasised the importance of his family in coping with daily life. "My wife Saki and my two sons have helped me so much every day," he said. Their sons, now aged 16 and 18, assist with everyday tasks, while Andy also enjoys regular walks with his dog Milo and receives support from a personal assistant through Oldham Council.

The dementia hub has also become a key part of Andy’s routine. "It’s brilliant, especially chatting with a volunteer who shares my passion for motorbikes," he said.

Saki is urging anyone worried about changes in memory, concentration, mood or behaviour not to ignore the signs. "Seek help. You’re not alone. Go to your GP. The person affected might not recognise the problem, so loved ones need to speak up," she advised.

Claire Evans, Oldham memory assessment service manager, echoed her message. "Getting help early can make a real difference. There’s a range of practical support and advice available to help you live well with dementia," she said.

For more information about local services, residents can contact the Oldham memory assessment service through Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust.