Page 15 - Heartbeat Publications | BHBN Radio

Benefi
Benefi
Benefi
Benefi
Benefi
Benefi ts of getting a ts of getting a ts of getting a ts of getting a ts of getting a ts of getting a
Dementia Diagnosis
Dementia Diagnosis
Dementia Diagnosis
Dementia Diagnosis
00,000 people are living
with dementia in the UK but
9more than a third don’t have a
diagnosis. This means that thousands
of people are facing the realities of
dementia alone, without access to the
vital care and support that a diagnosis
can bring.
A timely and accurate diagnosis is
crucial to manage symptoms and avoid • Thyroid problems
ending up in crisis. Getting a diagnosis • Stress
can be daunting, but Alzheimer’s • Iron and vitamin defi ciencies
Society believes it’s better to know. 9 Seeing the GP can help you get the
out of 10 people with dementia told treatment you need. If you do have
us they benefi tted from receiving a dementia, a diagnosis allows you to:
diagnosis.
Dementia is not a normal Access to support
part of ageing and its not just about There is no cure for the diseases
forgetting things. The symptoms get causing dementia yet. But there is
worse over time and include: support to help adjust to life with
• memory loss dementia and continue to do the things
• confusion and needing help with you enjoy for as long as possible.
daily tasks Knowing can also help you plan for the
• problems with language and future, access therapies and potentially
understanding access to medicines to help manage
• changes in behaviour your symptoms.
If you’re worried about Benefi ts and protection
yourself or a loved one, complete Getting a dementia diagnosis means
the Alzheimer’s Society’s symptom you can access fi nancial benefi ts you
checklist and show it to your GP. might be entitled to. It also means
that you are legally protected from
It might not be dementia discrimination (being treated unfairly).
Problems with memory and thinking
aren’t always dementia. Many other Being able to explain why you’re
conditions can cause similar symptoms having problems
which can be treated, including: It can be challenging for loved ones to
• Depression or anxiety understand the changes you are going
• Medication side effects through, which can be frustrating.
• Sleep problems Getting a diagnosis helps people to
• Problems with eyesight or hearing adjust with you and support you more
• Chest or urinary tract infections effectively.
• Severe constipation
Alzheimer’s Society is here for everyone affected by dementia.
Call their Dementia Support Line on 0333 150 3456
or visit alzheimers.org.uk for help and advice.

15