DEMENTIA - PCN PRIORITY

It's normal for your memory to be affected by stress, tiredness, certain illnesses and medicines. But if you're becoming increasingly forgetful, particularly if you're over the age of 65, it's a good idea to talk to a GP about the early signs of dementia.

Memory loss (amnesia) can be annoying if it happens occasionally, but if it's affecting your daily life, or it's worrying you, or someone you know, you should get help from a GP. Dementia is not only about memory loss. It can also affect the way you speak, think, feel and behave. It's also important to remember that dementia is not a natural part of ageing. Dementia is a syndrome (a group of related symptoms) associated with an ongoing decline of brain functioning. There are many different causes of dementia, and many different types. 

People often get confused about the difference between Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Alzheimer's disease is a type of dementia and, together with vascular dementia, makes up the majority of cases.

Our practices are dementia-friendly. This means:

• We have assessed our environment to ensure it is accessible and easy to navigate around as possible for all our patients - including those with a diagnosis of dementia.
• our staff are trained to be sensitive to the needs of all patients.
• we are able to make logical adjustments to assist with patient care, whenever possible.
• we consider the needs of all patients when introducing changes

• dementia doesn't have to stop sufferers doing the things they love.
  
• life doesn't end with a dementia diagnosis
• dementia can be scary - but there is plenty of help Patients and families do not have to face it alone.