What if I have Dementia?
A diagnosis of dementia usually comes as a shock. However for some people there may also be a sense of relief, that the symptoms they have been experiencing are due to a disease or condition for which help may be available.
Guideposts Trust, the charity which manages Dementia web has a wealth of experience to offer you. You can call our dementia helpline, in complete confidence, knowing that we understand dementia, are aware of how you may be feeling and can let you talk about things. Sometimes talking can help, expressing your emotions, asking questions, making a contact, getting a bit of moral support. All of these things can help initially. Sometimes the shock can be so great that you prefer to keep yourself to yourself, unable to discuss it with anyone, in which case we hope that the website will provide everything that you need.
When you want to talk we will be here to listen. The helpline will be answered by someone who knows how dementia can affect people and how it can affect family and friends too.
DEMENTIA HELPLINE
0845 1204048
Useful Information
The Alzheimer's Society has produced a very helpful factsheet, that suggests things you can do that will help to make life easier and more enjoyable, both now and in the future What if I have dementia?
There is a monthly magazine Living with Dementia, which is free to members of the Alzheimer's Society but can also be downloaded for free from its website irrespective of membership. There is information about advances in research as well as general issues relating to living with dementia.
Contact details for the Alzheimer's Society:
Alzheimer's Society,
Devon House
58 St Katharine's Way
London E1W 1JX
Telephone:+44 (0) 20 7423 3500
Email: enquiries@alzheimers.org.uk
Web: www.alzheimers.org.uk
Fax: 020 7423 3501
Local Support Groups for people living with dementia
A number of support groups exist, that enable carers and family members of people with dementia to meet together. Groups may also have programmes which include speakers and/or social events. Visit Dementia web's local county sites page to see what support groups are in an area near you.
Support Online
The Alzheimer's Society has several online forums, where you can post questions and relevant comments for other people who are also living with dementia
