Nigel Bates’ (Paul Bradley) diagnosis of early-onset dementia impacts his day-to-day life once again in upcoming EastEnders episodes, as he gets confused while out in Walford.
Nigel returned last December and quickly moved in with friend Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden). He was initially being cagey about just why he was in Albert Square, and later revealed to new pal Yolande (Angela Wynter) that he had received a diagnosis of early-onset dementia, and wanted to come back to his old home to see how it would impact his memory.
Speaking of the storyline, EastEnders Executive Producer Chris Clenshaw said: ‘Nigel’s story will explore the challenges faced by people diagnosed with young on-set dementia and their loved ones, which is why working with Dementia UK has been so vital.
‘As Nigel’s story unfolds, viewers will learn more about the decisions he’s made and how he’s coping with such a difficult diagnosis.’
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Nigel has gone on to tell a small handful of his close friends – including Phil and Grant (Ross Kemp) – about his health, but as a result of not everyone knowing, it causes quite a bit of trouble this coming week.
When Jean (Gillian Wright) notices Nigel wandering around by the pharmacy, she steps in to help. It soon becomes apparent that he thinks it’s the video shop, where he used to work in the 90s.
Jean takes Nigel home where Phil covers to protect his mate, but Jean isn’t convinced by the lies.
Later in the week, Jean reaches out to Nigel, trying to be a friend. Unfortunately, he remains quiet about the dementia diagnosis and dismisses Jean’s concerns.
It’s clear Jean wants to help. Will Nigel learn to let someone new into his life for support?
Dr Karen Harrison Dening, Head of Research and Publications at Dementia UK, also commented on the story:
‘We hope this storyline helps to shed some light on the challenges a diagnosis of young on-set dementia can bring. It tackles sensitive topics and hard truths, but we know that thousands of people in the UK are facing these every day.
‘The production team has shown a strong commitment to delivering a sensitive depiction, which we hope will spark conversations and encourage people to reach out to our dementia specialist Admiral Nurses for support when they need it.’
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