Dementia support

Contents

Dementia

Dementia is a set of symptoms that over time can affect a person’s ability to remember, think, communicate, plan and make decisions. It can also cause sensory impairment and changes in behaviour and personality.  There are many types of dementia. These are some of the most common. 

Alzheimer's disease

The first sign of Alzheimer’s  is usually minor memory problems. For example, a loss of interest and enjoyment in day-to-day activities. It’s also common to forget about recent conversations, events or the names of places.

Dementia with Lewy bodies

The symptoms of dementia with Lewy bodies usually develop gradually. They usually become more severe over the course of a few years. It causes problems with: thinking speed, language, understanding, judgement and memory.

Vascular dementia

Vascular dementia is a common type of dementia. It’s caused by reduced blood flow to the brain. symptoms include: slowness of thought, difficulty with planning and understanding, problems with concentration, changes to your mood, personality or behaviour, feeling disoriented and confused, difficultly walking and keeping balance

What is dementia? | Alzheimer's Society

 

What to do if you have concerns

Contact your GP to discuss your concerns, they will rule out any other potential issues and refer your for further tests if required.

They can also refer you on for a full assessment at the Memory Clinic if needed.  A timely diagnosis has many benefits including:

  • opportunities to receive Post-Diagnostic Support
  • medication if appropriate
  • information and help to understand the condition

Talking to your GP about dementia | Alzheimer's Society
 

Post Diagnostic Support

Dementia is just one thing about a person, it's not everything!

In East Lothian we offer one year’s post diagnostic support for everyone diagnosed with dementia.  This support is provided by Alzheimer Scotland’s Dementia Link Workers. 

Post diagnostic support (PDS) which will help you to:

  • understand the illness and manage your symptoms
  • be supported to keep up your community connections and make new ones
  • have the chance to meet other people with dementia and their partners and families
  • plan for future decision-making
  • plan for your future support

Making the most of your post diagnostic support (PDF)

National dementia adviser service

Dementia referrals and enquiries for one-to-one/ family advice and information from individuals and external organisations can seek further support at: