TV icon Pauline Quirke, best known for her roles in popular television shows like Birds of a Feather, Broadchurch, and Emmerdale, has recently disclosed that she has been diagnosed with dementia at the age of 65. This revelation was made by her husband, Steve Sheen, in 2021, who shared the news of Pauline’s diagnosis and her decision to step back from her professional and commercial duties. Steve praised Pauline for her contributions to the film and TV industry, her charitable work, and her establishment of the successful Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts (PQA).
The specific type of dementia that Pauline Quirke has been diagnosed with has not been disclosed publicly. According to the NHS, Alzheimer’s disease is the most prevalent form of dementia in individuals under 65 years old, while frontotemporal dementia is more frequently diagnosed in people aged 45-65. The incidence of dementia in women is notably higher than in men, with women being at a greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease compared to men, as per the Alzheimer’s Society.
Women’s increased susceptibility to dementia is attributed to various factors, including longevity, hormonal changes, access to education and employment opportunities, as well as genetic predispositions like the ApoE4 gene. While research indicates a potential link between dementia and menopause due to oestrogen’s protective effects on brain health, further studies are essential to confirm this association. Symptoms of dementia, irrespective of gender, commonly include memory loss, difficulty in concentration, confusion about time and place, and mood changes.
Dementia manifests differently in individuals, depending on the type of dementia, which includes Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies, and frontotemporal dementia. Despite variations in symptoms, all types of dementia impact cognitive functions. Women, particularly those with the ApoE4 gene variant, have a heightened risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, although the precise reasons for the gender disparity in dementia risk remain unclear.
As Pauline Quirke shares her journey with dementia, her story sheds light on the importance of raising awareness and providing support for individuals living with this condition. The news of her diagnosis serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by many individuals and families affected by dementia. By sharing her experience, Pauline Quirke continues to inspire others through her resilience and determination in the face of this life-changing diagnosis.
In conclusion, Pauline Quirke’s diagnosis with dementia underscores the significance of understanding and addressing the complexities of this condition, especially in women. As society navigates the impact of dementia on individuals and communities, initiatives aimed at enhancing support, awareness, and research are crucial in providing holistic care and fostering a dementia-friendly environment for all.