Help for living with dementia
How often do you go upstairs to fetch something, then can’t remember what you went for? The Alzheimer’s Society lists five things you should know about dementia:
Everyone forgets things sometimes, and that’s normal behaviour. But if you or someone you know is having real memory problems, then it may be time to seek help from a GP. A doctor can refer someone for an assessment to find out the cause of the problems.
Raising the issue of memory problems with a friend or relative can be difficult. People put off seeking help for many reasons – often because they are afraid of what they may hear from the doctor. Try to raise the issue when they are feeling relaxed and at home.
If they still refuse to visit the doctor, speak to their GP. The doctor won’t be able to discuss the patient with you but will be able to receive information about them.
If you or a loved one have recently been diagnosed with dementia, the Alzheimer’s Society booklet, The
Staying positive is vital, as is focusing on things you can still do and enjoy
Dementia Guide: Living well after diagnosis can help. It has information about treatments, support and services that are available.
It’s normal to feel sad, fearful and worried after a dementia diagnosis. Try to talk to friends and family about how you’re feeling. They might be feeling stressed too, so talking can help. Staying positive is vital, as is focusing on things you can still do and enjoy.
Dementia is caused by disease of the brain. There are lots of causes and no two types of dementia are the same.
It’s not just about losing your memory: dementia can affect the way people think, speak, perceive things, feel and behave.
People can continue to live well with dementia: support and treatments are available to help you still enjoy life.
The Alzheimer’s Society can assist
– it provides support to people living with dementia, their families and carers and anyone else affected by dementia.
Dementia is not a natural part of ageing and doesn’t just affect older people: more than 40,000 people under 65 in the UK have dementia.
■ Contact the Alzheimer’s Society National Dementia Helpline, 0300 222 1122 or visit www.alzheimers.org.uk to find out about support available near to you. Sign up to Talking Point, an online community for anyone affected by dementia.
■ To download a copy of The Dementia Guide: Living well after diagnosis or to order one by post visit www.alzheimers.org.uk