Living with Dementia

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.

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.

Living With Dementia Helpcards

These cards are provided by the Alzheimer's Society. There are three different cards to describe different conditions - "I have memory problems", "I have Alzheimer's disease" and "I have dementia" so you can choose the card which suits. The card can be carried when the person with dementia goes out alone. It can be used to aid communication with people in shops etc. You can add information to the card ie. the person's name, the name and number of someone who could be contacted for help, emergency numbers etc. More information and how to get the cards.

Local Support Groups for people living with dementia

In Warwickshire there are several support groups especially for people who have had a diagnosis of dementia.

Alzheimer's Cafés