Dementia is not a specific disease but is rather a general term for the impaired ability to remember, think, or make decisions that interferes with doing everyday activities.
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.
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 as an early diagnosis can lead to treatment that may slow its progress.
Here are some useful links for dementia support as either someone living with dementia or their carer.
- The Broxtowe Dementia Directory: http://tinyurl.com/bdfhckxr
- NHS website: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dementia/about/
- The Alzheimer’s Association: https://www.alz.org/
- Dementia UK: https://www.dementiauk.org/
- Dementia Friends: https://www.dementiafriends.org.uk/
- Dementia Connect: Call 03331503456 and if appropriate you will get referred through to a local Dementia Connect Advisor.
- Admiral Nurse helpline: 08808028080 and website https://www.dementiauk.org/get-support/what-is-an-admiral-nurse/
Admiral Nurses are specialist dementia nurses
We also have a page dedicated to carers on this website here.
More information will appear on this page in due course.