Dementia

In Kent there are lots of organisations that can offer support, advice and guidance if you are directly affected by dementia or if you care for someone who has dementia. 

The term ‘dementia’ describes a syndrome where there is a decline in mental functions, including:

• memory
• reasoning
• communication skills and
• the ability to carry out daily activities.
  

Symptoms of dementia include:

• Loss of memory
  This may start with simple things such as forgetting the way home from the shops, or being unable to remember names and places.
• Mood changes
  This happens when the parts of the brain which control emotion are affected. People with dementia may feel sad, angry or frightened as a result.
• Problems communicating
  A decline in the ability to talk, read and write.

The onset of dementia can be caused by several factors, such as age, genetic background, medical history and lifestyle.

If you are worried about yourself or someone you know it is worth discussing your concerns with your General Practitioner (GP). Kent has excellent memory assessment services that your GP can refer you to in order to be properly assessed. 

Support Services for people affected by dementia

If you have, or have recently been diagnosed, with dementia you can get support from the following organisations:

• DementiaWeb
  A collaboration between Kent and Medway, this website provides information and support for people based in Kent who are living with dementia.
• 24 hour Kent and Medway helpline - 0845 604 4391
  This helpline provides information and emotional support for people with dementia and their carers.
• Alzheimer's and Dementia Support Services
  Provides practical and emotional support to people with Dementia, their main carer and other relatives or supporters.
• Dementia choices
  The Mental Health Foundation has a range of information for people living with dementia, their families and friends, social care professionals and other staff about self-directed support in social care.