Dementia: where can I get support?

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The NHS describes dementia as a syndrome, which means it's the overall term that describes the progressive decline in someone’s mental ability.

According to the Alzheimer's Society there are around 850,000 people in the UK with dementia. One in 14 people over 65 will develop dementia, and the condition affects 1 in 6 people over 80.

The number of people with dementia is increasing because people are living longer. It is estimated that by 2025, the number of people with dementia in the UK will have increased to around 1 million.

Symptoms may include:

  • Memory loss

  • Thinking speed

  • Mental sharpness and quickness

  • Language

  • Understanding

  • Judgement

  • Mood movement

  • Difficulties carrying out daily activities

The most common types of dementia are:

  • Alzheimer’s disease- Vascular dementia

  • Mixed dementia

  • Dementia with Lewy bodies

  • Frontotemporal dementia.

The NHS suggests keeping in contact with others is good for people with dementia, because it helps them to keep active and stimulated. Some may find it helpful to join a local group of people with dementia and their families.

Charities offering support include: