Living with Dementia

I Have Been Diagnosed With Dementia

Getting a diagnosis of dementia may have come as a shock. Try your best to stay positive and know you are not alone — support is all around you!

No matter how much you may have been expecting a diagnosis of dementia, it may still have come as a shock. It is hard for everyone concerned and reassurance and support are vital. The most important thing is to try and be positive and to know that you are not alone. There are people you can talk to, and services that can help.

Once the necessary tests were completed, or sometimes before, you should have been asked if you wanted to know your diagnosis. You should also have been given an explanation about what having dementia might mean for you. It is important to have time to talk more about the condition and the opportunity to ask questions.

If you decided that you wanted to know your diagnosis:

• Your doctor or a member of their team should have told you or your carer.
• The type of dementia you have, or if they are unsure, what the plan for further investigation will involve.
• Details about symptoms and how the illness might develop.
• Appropriate treatments that might be offered to you.
• The name of a health or social care professional who will coordinate the support you need.
• Care and support services in your area (local support groups and voluntary organisations).
• Local advocacy services.
• Practical advice about driving or employment, if this applies to you.
• Where you can find financial and legal advice.

I Am a Carer

Supporting a person living with dementia will likely have a big impact on your life. Although it can be positive and rewarding, it can also present challenges. You may find things difficult at times or feel unsure about the future.

Everyone needs support from time to time and you should not feel guilty about asking for help. Asking for help enables you to carry out the important role of supporting the person you care for.

• If your loved one gives permission, the GP may share information with you about their care and treatments.
• You may be given helpful information about where to get support.
• Appointments may be provided at times that are more suitable for you.
• You may be eligible for free annual health checks and flu vaccinations.

‘Here 4 Each Other’ – Support Group for Carers

Everyone’s experience of caring for someone living with dementia is unique, but there is a great deal of common ground too. Being in touch with others who know what it is like can be invaluable.

Our online support community ‘Here 4 Each Other’ meets at 7 pm on the 1st Tuesday of every month via Zoom. It is a safe and reassuring space where you can chat openly without being judged.

Talking to and listening to others can help you understand better, and sharing your own experiences — both good and bad — can help others. If you would like to join us or would like more information, please contact us.

Looking After Yourself

Living with and caring for someone with dementia can have a big impact on your mental and physical health and wellbeing. It is important that you look after yourself!

Healthy Eating Choices & Self-Care

• Eat balanced meals and drink 6–8 glasses of liquid every day.
• Stay physically active (walking, gardening, exercising).
• Stay mentally active (reading, puzzles, crosswords).
• Make time for yourself (hobbies, interests, activities you enjoy).
• Get enough sleep. If possible, nap when the person with dementia sleeps — even a 20–30 minute nap can help restore alertness. Avoid alcohol and caffeine in the evening if sleep is a problem.

How Can You Help?

We welcome ideas for raising funds to help us provide further support and training. Please contact us if you want to share your ideas or would like to get involved with our activities.