Living with dementia

other communal areas where residents can pursue their interests, remaining active and independent. Apartments are available both for rental and shared ownership. Independent Living Schemes have flexible care services available on site which give residents and their families peace of mindthat their new homes will strike the right balance of privacy, independence and support. There is also a real focus on social activity with lots of shared space for bothresidents and the community. Contact your local council for details.

Being diagnosed with dementia does not mean that you will be unable to lead a positive and full life. With the right support, you can live well with the condition and continue to do the things you enjoy for a number of years following diagnosis.

Dementia is a progressive brain disease affecting individuals differently – this means that the symptoms will get worse over time. Dementia usually manifests itself initially in memory issues but goes on to affect other functions of the brain, meaning a person could:

• have difficulty with organising daily activities, prioritising tasks and communicating with others;

• experience changes in their mood, judgement or personality;

• have trouble making decisions;

• start making excuses for their forgetfulness; or

• have difficulties with short-term memory while distant memory remains good.

Although there is no cure, treatments can slow the progression of the disease, and, with support, there are ways to make it manageable. As the illness progresses, you will need to rely on others more. Dementia is much more common in older people but can be found in people as young as 30.

It is important to seek advice from your GP if you are concerned about memory difficulties. They will be able to carry out simple tests and, where necessary, refer you to a memory clinic which will complete a further, more detailed examination.

There are various types of support available to people with dementia and their carers through the NHS, Adult Social Care and voluntary agencies. Some examples of these services include:

• specialist day centres;

• respite care or short breaks;

• assistive technology and social care alarms;

• home care;

• meals at home;

• community equipment;

• extra care/sheltered housing; and

• carers’ support groups, including lunch clubs and cognitive stimulation groups.

There are also some simple practical steps which you can take to help yourself with memory issues:

• keep your mind active by reading or completing crosswords, Sudoku and other mind exercises;

• take regular exercise;

• eat a healthy balanced diet; and

• use a diary and make lists or use prompts to support you with remembering appointments or medication, for example.