Have you recently been diagnosed with Dementia and are looking for some advice?
A timely diagnosis can help a person living with dementia to live well and for longer. A greater understanding and awareness of dementia can allow for adjustments to be made, which will help you to manage and, in some cases, lessen the symptoms.
At Aspire for Intelligent Care and Support we can help you to live an independent and positive life with dementia. We can help you to find ways to manage, to help you with care and to support you and your family throughout.
We believe it is important to focus on what you can still do, rather than what you can’t do, and we can help you to stay positive throughout the process, as difficult as it may be.
6 steps to help manage your diagnosis:
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Learn about dementia and particularly the type of dementia you may have.
Why is this important?
There are many different types of dementia and there are specific characteristics associated with certain types, for example hallucinations in Lewy Body dementia. It is important to understand what type of dementia you have been diagnosed with, to help you to better understand the symptoms and to find the right support to help you deal with it.
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Maintain medical care.
Be sure to maintain your medical care and contact with your GP and memory clinic.
This will help ensure you get the right support and care, every step of the way.
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Find local services and support in Salford.
When you first receive your diagnosis you may be given information on what support is available in your local area. Due to the life changing impact of a diagnosis, you may need time to process what is happening before you are ready to seek support.
If needed, you can contact your Dementia Specialist or Memory Clinic to ask for this information again, or alternatively you can speak to Chris Sewards, Dementia Lead at Aspire Salford for more information on what dementia support in Salford is available for you: chris.sewards@iamaspire.org.uk 0161 607 7101
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Legal, financial and long-term care planning.
Get information to help you plan for your future.
Prepare or update your will, living will, healthcare power of attorney, and financial power of attorney.
Learn about care you may need in the future and how to pay for it. Explore getting help to pay for medicines, housing, transportation, and more.
Your Dementia Specialist may be able to advise you of local solicitors specialising in dementia planning or put you in touch with dementia support groups who can help with this.
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Get help as needed with day-to-day tasks.
Use simple memory aids like a notepad or sticky notes to jot down reminders, a pillbox to keep medications organized, and a calendar to record appointments.
Ask family members or friends or find local services to help with routine tasks, such as cooking, transportation, or shopping.
Consider using technology solutions (Telecare and Telehealth solutions are available at Humphrey Booth Resource Centre) for medication management, safety (e.g., emergency response, door alarms), and other care.
Speak to our Salford Dementia Lead, Chris Sewards, for more help and advice on dementia support available in Salford. chris.sewards@iamaspire.org.uk 0161 607 7101
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Stay safe and healthy.
Get home-safety tips. Consider wearing a medical ID bracelet or necklace in case you get lost or need help.
Be active! Getting exercise helps people with dementia feel better and helps keep their muscles, joints, and heart in good shape.
