Dementia | Connect to Support

About dementia

Dementia is a condition where the brain's ability to function declines over time, leading to a group of related symptoms. There are many causes and types of dementia.

People often confuse Alzheimer's disease with dementia. Alzheimer's is a type of dementia and, along with vascular dementia, makes up most cases. Alzheimer's disease accounts for 60 to 80 percent of dementia cases.

Vascular dementia, which occurs after a stroke, is the second most common type. There are also other conditions that can cause dementia-like symptoms, some of which are reversible, such as thyroid problems and vitamin deficiencies.

Worried someone has dementia?

If you're worried about a friend or family member becoming more forgetful, encourage them to see a GP to discuss early signs of dementia. Memory loss can have other causes, but early detection of dementia can sometimes slow its progress, helping the person maintain their mental function longer.

You might suggest going with your friend or relative to the GP for support and to help them remember what was discussed.

Memory loss is a main sign of dementia, but some other symptoms include:

Having trouble with tasks that need focus and planning.
Changes in personality and mood.
Feeling confused at times.
Struggling to find the right words or understand conversations.

For more advice on talking to someone you think has signs of dementia: NHS website

Living with dementia

Dementia can affect all aspects of a person's life, as well as those around them.

If you have been diagnosed with dementia, it's important to remember that:

you're still you, even though you have problems with memory, concentration and planning
everyone experiences dementia differently
focusing on the things you can still do and enjoy will help you to stay positive

With the right help and support when you need it, many people can, and do, live well with dementia for several years.

Living at home when you have dementia

In the early stages, many people can live at home and enjoy life as they did before.

After being diagnosed, you should get advice on how to keep doing what's important to you and information about local support and services.

As dementia gets worse, it may become harder to take care of yourself and your home. You might need extra help with daily tasks like housework, shopping, and making changes to your home.

Living well with dementia - NHS

Dementia Coordinators

A Dementia Coordinator will be your point of contact throughout your experience of dementia. They work with your doctor’s surgery to help provide support and guidance to people affected by dementia. They will work with you to access the information, support and guidance you need to enable you to get the most out of life and understand your condition.