Worried About Dementia? Here’s What to Do

If you’re concerned that someone you care about may be showing signs of dementia, it’s completely understandable to feel unsure about what to do next. Dementia can be a difficult and worrying subject to approach, but it’s important to remember that early action can make a real difference. By recognising the signs early, you can help manage the condition and ensure that your loved one gets the right care at the right time.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the signs to look out for, how to talk to someone about your concerns and what steps to take if dementia is diagnosed. You’re not alone in this, and help is available every step of the way.

What is dementia?

Dementia is a general term for a range of conditions that affect the brain, leading to a decline in memory, thinking, behaviour and the ability to carry out everyday tasks. The most common type of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, but there are others, including vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia and frontotemporal dementia, each affecting the brain in different ways.

While dementia primarily impacts memory and cognitive function, it can also influence a person’s mood and personality. It’s important to understand that dementia isn’t a normal part of ageing, though it becomes more common as people get older.

Explore our in-depth Dementia Information Hub for tips, advice and guidance to help you and your loved one live well with dementia.

How to recognise the signs of dementia

Dementia can manifest in many different ways, and the signs can often be subtle at first. One of the most common symptoms is memory loss, but it’s not the only one. Other early signs of dementia can include:

Difficulty with tasks that require concentration or planning
Personality and mood changes
Mental confusion or disorientation
Trouble finding the right words

It’s important to remember that everyone experiences forgetfulness or confusion at times, especially as they age. Still, it’s worth seeking professional advice if these symptoms are becoming more frequent or severe. Early diagnosis can help identify whether dementia is the cause and ensure the right steps are taken to manage the condition effectively.

Encouraging someone to see their gp

If you’re concerned that a loved one may be showing early signs of dementia, encouraging them to see their GP is an important first step. A visit to the GP can help rule out other potential causes for memory loss or confusion and provide a clearer picture of what’s going on. Early detection of dementia can, in some cases, slow its progression and help maintain cognitive function for longer, so it’s worth addressing concerns sooner rather than later.

Approaching the subject can be delicate, especially if the person is unaware of or in denial about their symptoms. Here are a few tips on how to encourage them to seek help:

Be gentle and understanding: Acknowledge that they might be worried or scared about what their symptoms might mean. Reassure them that seeing a GP is just the first step towards understanding and managing the situation.
Offer to go with them: Sometimes, the idea of visiting the doctor can feel daunting, so offering to accompany them for moral support can make the process easier.
Explain the benefits: Emphasise that a GP visit is a way to get answers, understand what’s going on and begin to explore ways to help, whether that’s through medication, lifestyle changes or support services.

During the GP appointment, the doctor will likely ask about the person’s medical history and how their symptoms have developed over time. They may also conduct memory tests, physical examinations and blood tests to rule out other conditions. If the doctor suspects dementia, they may refer the individual to a memory clinic or specialist for further assessment.

How to talk to someone about memory problems

Bringing up the topic of memory loss and the possibility of dementia can be a sensitive subject. The person you’re concerned about may be unaware of their symptoms, in denial or even worried about what the future holds. Remember to approach the conversation with care and empathy, ensuring that the individual feels supported rather than overwhelmed.

Here are some tips to help guide you through this delicate conversation:

Be patient and understanding: If the person hasn’t yet noticed their memory issues, or if they think it’s just a normal part of ageing, gently highlight the concerns without making them feel defensive. Acknowledging their feelings and showing that you’re there to help is important.
Choose a familiar, non-threatening setting: Make sure the conversation takes place somewhere calm and familiar, where the person feels comfortable. This could be at home or another place where they feel at ease.
Give them time: Allow plenty of time for the conversation. Don’t rush it – let them process what you’re saying and offer reassurances as needed.

Before you start the conversation, it may help to consider the following questions:

Has the person already noticed or mentioned their memory issues?
Do they believe their memory problems are just part of getting older?
Are they worried about what these changes could mean for their future?
Do they feel there’s no point in seeking help?

By thinking through these points, you can approach the conversation in a way that’s sensitive to their concerns. And remember, if the person isn’t ready to see a GP, you can always suggest seeking support from dementia helplines or organisations, such as Dementia UK or the Alzheimer’s Society, for guidance on how to move forward.

What happens if the diagnosis is dementia?

Receiving a dementia diagnosis can be a shock, but it’s an important first step toward getting the support and care needed to manage the condition. While it’s normal to feel overwhelmed initially, many people find that having a clear diagnosis helps them better understand the symptoms and make informed decisions about care.

A dementia diagnosis opens the door to practical support options, such as treatment to manage symptoms, lifestyle changes and professional care. It also allows the person with dementia and their loved ones to begin planning for the future, whether that’s through legal, financial or care arrangements.

It’s important to remember that dementia doesn’t mean an immediate decline – with the right support, people can continue to live well for some time.

Dementia care at home

At Trinity Homecare, we understand that a dementia diagnosis can be overwhelming. We offer ‘Outstanding’ rated dementia care in the comfort of your own home. Studies show that 85% of people prefer to stay in their familiar surroundings, and we’re committed to making that possible.

With professional care tailored to your loved one’s needs, we help them enjoy a happy and fulfilling life while staying at home. For more details on how Trinity Homecare can support you, explore our live-in dementia care guide and discover the compassionate care your family deserves.

Talk to us today

At Trinity Homecare, our ultimate goal is to enrich your lifestyle in the comfort and familiarity of your own home. This allows you to live the independent lifestyle that you love without the daunting thought of moving into a care home. We are here to support you with various forms of full time and visiting care.

Call us now on 0207 183 4884 in confidence for a free, no obligation quotation. If enquiring outside of our opening hours, please complete our online form and we will contact you the next day.