Army theme for man with dementia's 60th birthday

A man who was diagnosed with young-onset dementia has celebrated his 60th birthday with an army-themed party.

Ian Burton was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia in 2014 when he was 50.

Mr Burton, a resident at Barrowhill Hall Care Home in Rocester, Uttoxeter, was in the military and was given a special cake in the shape of a tank to celebrate his birthday.

Family, friends, ex-colleagues and residents at the home gathered to celebrate with Mr Burton and enjoy the food and entertainment which included a violinist.

Young-onset dementia - which about 70,000 people in the UK are thought to be living with - is when symptoms of dementia develop before the age of 65.

Mr Burton, who previously worked in technical support at Derbyshire Police, was encouraged by the force to have a check-up after having problems at work, leading to his diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia (FTD).

His wife of 37 years, Wendy Burton, who became a dementia carer and advisor, said her husband had continued to deteriorate over the last two years.

She said Mr Burton needed complete support with eating, drinking, washing and dressing - and recently completely lost the ability to walk.

He also had problems swallowing so needed soft foods and thickened drinks.

"Over the last year or so he could walk with support but that has now changed. On many visits now Ian struggles to stay awake," she said.

"Positives are that we feel that there is still some recognition, he likes to watch our two grandchildren. He will also look at photographs on our phones."

Mrs Burton said raising awareness of rare forms of dementia helped her cope and that she had become a volunteer with Rare Dementia Support, which involved giving talks about her experience with FTD.

"I will continue to raise awareness and work with everyone associated with dementia for as long as I possibly can," she said.

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