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A quick guide to dementia services,
help and support in Camden
Worried about dementia?
People worry about their memory for many different reasons. Perhaps someone close to you has been diagnosed, or maybe you have symptoms you think might be dementia.
There are over 100 types of dementia and everyone experiences dementia in their own way. However, some common early symptoms may appear some time before a diagnosis of dementia. If you have any of the symptoms listed here, please see your GP.
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memory loss
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difficulty concentrating
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finding it hard to carry out familiar daily tasks
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difficulty finding the right word or person’s name
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being confused about time and place
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mood changes
How to get a dementia diagnosis
If you are worried about your own or someone else's memory problems, encourage them to make an appointment with a GP and perhaps suggest that you go with them. Getting a diagnosis gives you and your family the best chance to prepare for the future.
What to expect when you see a GP about dementia
A GP will ask about your symptoms and other aspects of your health. They will also ask if you are finding it difficult to manage everyday activities such as:
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washing and dressing (personal care)
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cooking and shopping
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paying bills
If possible, someone who knows you well should be with you at your GP appointment so they can describe any changes or problems they have noticed. They could also help you remember what was said at the appointment if this is difficult for you.
Memory problems do not necessarily mean you have dementia. These problems can have other causes, such as:
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Depression and anxiety
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Confusion caused by a medical condition, such as an infection
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Side effects of some medicines
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To help rule out other causes of memory problems, the GP will do a physical examination and may organise tests, such as a blood test and urine test. You will also be asked to do a memory or cognitive test to check any problems with your memory or ability to think clearly.
Referral to a dementia specialist
If the GP has been able to rule out other causes for your symptoms, they will refer you to Camden Memory Service who will assess you in your own home or in the clinic, ideally with a family member or friend present.
You will be asked questions about changes you may have noticed, your physical health and medication. You will also be asked questions, which test the functions of your brain. The assessment usually takes one hour.
After the assessment, you may be referred to a local hospital for a brain scan. This will usually take
6-8 weeks to arrange and will be followed up by Camden Memory Service.
If needed, Camden Memory Service may arrange for you to see a psychologist or occupational therapist for a more in depth assessment.
If the diagnosis is
dementia
You will be given information and advice on:
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The type of dementia you have
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The symptoms and how the condition might develop
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The treatments you might be offered
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Agreeing an initial care plan
If the diagnosis is not clear, the Memory Service will talk to you about further tests.
Follow-up support
You will be allocated to a specialist from the Memory Service who will visit you at home within 6 weeks of your diagnosis to give further support and advice. They will continue to see you at least twice a year and remain your local point of contact for all help and advice. You may also be referred to Camden Council's Adult Social Care Team who will co-ordinate the different types of support you may need.