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Sign in or register for an accountDementia is a general term for brain diseases that cause memory, thinking, and reasoning to worsen over time, making it difficult to remember things, solve problems, and perform everyday tasks. It's not a normal part of aging, and it's not a single disease, but rather a group of conditions that affect the brain.
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.
Memory loss (amnesia) can be annoying if it happens occasionally, but if it's affecting your daily life, or it's worrying you, or someone you know, you should get help from a GP. Dementia is not only about memory loss. It can also affect the way you speak, think, feel and behave.
It's also important to remember that dementia is not a natural part of ageing.
Dementia is a syndrome (a group of related symptoms) associated with an ongoing decline of brain functioning. 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.
Dementia symptoms may include problems with:
People with dementia can lose interest in their usual activities, and may have problems managing their behaviour or emotions.
They may also find social situations difficult and lose interest in relationships and socialising.
Aspects of their personality may change, and they may lose empathy (understanding and compassion).
A person with dementia may see or hear things that other people do not (hallucinations and hearing voices).
Because people with dementia may lose the ability to remember events, or not fully understand their environment or situations, it can seem as if they're not telling the truth or are wilfully ignoring problems.
As dementia affects a person's mental abilities, they may find planning and organising difficult. Maintaining their independence may also become a problem.
A person with dementia will usually need help from friends or relatives, including help with making decisions.
The symptoms of dementia usually become worse over time. In the late stage of dementia, people will not be able to take care of themselves and may lose their ability to communicate.
Read more about the symptoms of dementia.
If you have concerns about memory loss speak to your GP or have a look at some useful information Age UK Salford Dementia Service. They offer an easy to access one-stop-shop of online and face to face support across the city for those living with dementia and their families and carers.
They run a number of friendship groups and Dementia cafes across Salford which provide social and activity groups for people living with dementia. They also deliver bespoke training programmes aimed at supporting carers to develop a better understanding of dementia and how the disease impacts on communication.
Although there is no cure for dementia at the moment, an early diagnosis means its progress can be slowed down in some cases, so the person may be able to maintain their mental function for longer.
A diagnosis helps people with dementia get the right treatment and support. It can also help them, and the people close to them, to prepare for the future.
With treatment and support, many people are able to lead active, fulfilled lives with dementia.
Read more about how dementia is diagnosed.
The number of people with dementia is increasing because people are living longer. It is estimated that by 2030, the number of people with dementia in the UK will be more than 1 million.
"Living well with dementia" means maintaining a good quality of life despite the challenges of the condition. It focuses on finding ways to support people with dementia to continue engaging in meaningful activities, maintain their well-being, and feel empowered and valued. This involves a combination of practical advice, emotional support, and engaging in activities that bring joy and purpose.
The Open Doors support group, run by Greater Manchester Mental Health Trust Memory and Dementia service, leads on a range of initiatives to support people living with dementia and their carers.
The Service leads on the development of a range of initiatives across Salford, including a dementia cafe providing post-diagnostic education and support (in conjunction with memory services), a friendship and support network for individuals newly diagnosed as well as a group for those who have been diagnosed longer term.
To find out more please contact Cathy Riley - email reachbeyond@gmmh.nhs.uk
If you would like to give feedback on this website (what is missing?) or the services and support you are using or have used please contact Caroline Allport, Engagement and Development Officer at Salford City Council.
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Adult social care is now provided by Northern Care Alliance