Dementia is a growing problem that more and more of us have to contend with – if not in ourselves, then with friends and loved ones.

We are generally living longer thanks to advances in medical science, but where medicine can improve the longevity of our bodies, our minds and the maladies that affect them sometimes remain shrouded in mystery, even to the experts.

A sea-change is needed in the way we behave towards and around sufferers of dementia on a day-to-day basis, which is why the Idle and Thackley ward’s bid to become the first dementia-friendly Bradford community is to be applauded.

Simple alterations to the fabric of the community, such as better signposting, more training for retail staff and heightened awareness on public transport, can all help people with dementia have a much smoother ride as they go about their daily business.

Sometimes, dementia can manifest simply as momentary forgetfulness, and if those who are in regular contact with the public – shop staff, bus and train drivers, pub and restaurant workers – are more quickly able to spot the signs and more confident about what to do, then this would be a massive step forward.

Merely pointing people in the right direction, helping them remember their purchases or sort their money, would greatly improve the confidence of dementia sufferers and give peace of mind to their families that they will be treated with respect, dignity and help if they need it.

If Idle and Thackley can successfully pull off the task of becoming the first dementia-friendly Bradford Council ward, then the community will have done a wonderful thing and be a beacon to be lived up to by the rest of us.