Dementia
Good mental health is important at all ages. A diagnosis of dementia can change the lives of the person with dementia, their carers and friends. Networks Of Wellbeing (NoW) recognises this and has set up a few groups for people with mild to moderate levels of dementia.
NoW delivers Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) groups in care homes; supports ‘Boogie in the Bar’ - watch this space for information for Autumn/Winter 2023; offers outreach group sessions; and has a one to one counselling service which is open to all and which may be helpful to family members or carers of those living with dementia.
(Our activities are generally run in care homes or sheltered housing settings whose management and staff believe in an open door policy - which sees people living in their own homes joining the sessions.)
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Please note that the information in the section below has been taken from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dementia/worried-someone-has-dementia/
If someone you know is becoming increasingly forgetful, encourage them to see a GP to talk about the early signs of dementia.
There are other reasons why someone might be experiencing memory loss. However, if dementia is found early, its progress can be slowed down in some cases, so the person may be able to maintain their mental function for longer.
Be aware of the signs of dementia
Although dementia is not only about memory loss, that's one of the main signs.
Some of the other signs of dementia include:
- increasing difficulty with tasks and activities that require concentration and planning
- changes in personality and mood
- periods of mental confusion
- difficulty finding the right words or not being able to understand conversations as easily
You may like to suggest you go with your friend or relative to see a GP so you can support them. You'll also be able to help them recall what has been discussed.
A GP will ask how the symptoms have developed over time. They may also do a memory test and physical examination. Blood tests may be done to check if the symptoms are being caused by another condition.
If other causes can be ruled out, the GP will usually refer your friend or relative to a memory clinic, or other specialist service, where they may have more assessments to confirm whether they have dementia.
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See below for links to websites which offer a wide range of advice, information and support for people and their families who are affected by dementia.
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Aberdeen Dementia Resource Centre – The centre aims to support people with dementia, their families, relatives and friends at any stage of the illness. 01224 644077
Age Scotland – Early Stage Dementia Project team have produced a range of guides to help you.
Alzheimer Scotland – Alzheimer Scotland is a leading Scottish dementia charity. ‘We campaign for change’ 0808 808 3000. To contact the Dementia Link Worker for North and Central Aberdeenshire call 07585 775985.
Dementia Aberdeenshire – a website for people with dementia, carers and the local community in Aberdeenshire. Providing you with a one-stop shop for information about dementia.
Dementia UK – providing practical and emotional support to families living with dementia.
Quarriers Adult Carer Support Service Aberdeenshire - Practical care and support for vulnerable people. Helping you access advice and information that’s right for your caring role as well as connecting you to specialist agencies to ensure you get the answers you need.
Quarriers Adult Carer Support Service Moray - Practical care and support for vulnerable people. Helping you access advice and information that’s right for your caring role as well as connecting you to specialist agencies to ensure you get the answers you need.
TIDE - Together in Dementia Everyday, Supported by Life Changes Trust Campaigns and supports People Living with Dementia and their Carers. 0141 353 5607.
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