Dementia wellbeing
Worried about your memory?
Everybody forgets things from time to time. But if your noticing problems with your memory, or the memory of someone close to you, it is important to speak to a GP.
Learn more
There are 850,000 people currently living in the UK with a diagnosis of Dementia. Dementia is a disease that affects the brain. If you or someone close to you is experiencing changes such as significant memory loss, confusion or language difficulties, it’s a good idea to visit your GP for an assessment.
Dementia is not a normal part of aging, as explained on the Alzheimer's Society website. It is important that you discuss any symptoms or changes you have noticed with a GP as soon as you can rather than putting it off. Going through an assessment as early as possible can give you a number of advantages. For example, ruling out other medical conditions, having an explanation as to why you are experiencing your symptoms, getting access to any treatments you need and if you are given a diagnosis of dementia you will usually be told which type of dementia it is. There are over 100 different types of dementia, the main ones are described on the Alzheimer's Society website. Alzheimer’s Disease is the the most prevalent.
Memory tests
The Mini Mental State Examination, see the Alzheimers Society website, is the most commonly used test for complaints or problems with memory or other mental abilities.
If you are worried about your memory, everything you need to know about memory tests and the assessment process can be found on the Alzheimer's Society website.
Useful telephone numbers
Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Connect – 0333 1503456
West Sussex Carers Support – 0300 028 8888
Dementia Support – 01243 888691
Age UK – 01903 731800
Five things you should know about dementia
- Dementia is not a natural part of ageing.
- Dementia is caused by diseases of the brain.
- It’s not just about losing your memory.
- People can still live well with dementia.
- Alzheimer’s Society is here for anyone affected by dementia.
Dementia friendly communities
West Sussex is working towards becoming a dementia friendly county. We are always looking for people to get involved with their local community whether you are looking for advice on which local organisations and activity groups are dementia friendly, want to meet other people in a similar situation to you, or if you want to help out /volunteer at local community events.
The following areas have a local dementia friendly community:
Adur - email to get in touch
Arun District - email to Caroline Thomas or Mandi Kane to get in touch
Chichester - email to get in touch
Crawley - email to get in touch
East Grinstead - email to get in touch
Haywards Heath - email to get in touch
Horsham District - email to get in touch
Selsey - email to get in touch
Worthing - email to get in touch
For all other areas, email Dawn Fairbrother