Thanks to everybody who has been interacting with us after the launch of our new website last month www.ravencourtliving.com. We were asked about financial support after a dementia diagnosis so we asked the experts at Alzheimer’s Society knowledge team. Gemma Jolly the Alzheimer’s society knowledge manager was kind enough to offer the following information.
A diagnosis of dementia has a profound impact on the person and those supporting them. Everyone experiences dementia in their own way. Some people may feel sad, angry or confused. Some people may feel relieved that they finally have an answer for what they were experiencing. People’s reactions to a diagnosis may change on a day-to-day basis. Many people describe dementia as experiencing a series of losses that need adjusting to. This can be very challenging both emotionally and practically.
If you are supporting a person with dementia it can be a rewarding experience, but it can also be very challenging. It can be hard to look after yourself as a carer, and you will have your own reactions to the diagnosis and what it means for you. Access to good quality information, support and advice is really important.
It’s important to talk about the diagnosis (when and if you feel able to). Some people find talking to friends and family helps, both for the person and those supporting them. Many people have a lot of questions about dementia and it is not always easy to work out where to go for support.
Alzheimer’s Society National Dementia Helpline (0300 222 1122) provides information, advice and emotional support to anyone affected by dementia, seven days a week (9am–8pm Monday to Wednesday, 9am–5pm Thursday and Friday, 10am–4pm at weekends)
Another important area is making sure that people have access to good quality information to support them live well with dementia.
Alzheimer’s Society have produced ‘The dementia guide: living well after diagnosis’ for people with dementia and ‘Caring for a person with dementia: A practical guide’ for carers, to provide people affected by dementia access the key information they need. Both these publications are available free of charge.
Alzheimer’s Society produce a range of publications to support and inform anyone affected by dementia. These publications offer practical information and advice on all aspects of dementia including what is dementia, treatments, living well, planning ahead, legal matters and financial support.
Another fantastic resource for people affected by dementia is Talking Point – an online community for anyone affected by dementia who wants support. It is free to access and is open 24/7. You can use Talking Point to:
- Ask for advice
- Read other people’s stories
- Offload concerns about dementia
- Share helpful information.
If you’re looking for support services close to you take a look at Alzheimer’s Society’s comprehensive online dementia directory.
It can seem like there is no support available or you may not be sure where to go to get the information you need. Alzheimer’s Society is here for everyone affected by dementia.
For more information about Alzheimer’s Society see alzheimers.org.uk.
Alzheimer’s Society’s online shop sell many of our products as part of their Daily living aids range of products to help people with dementia to live well and for longer in their own homes. 100% of their profits helps fund Alzheimer’s Society’s work, supporting people living with dementia, and getting one step closer to a cure.
Next month we will be exploring a FREE lasting power of attorney (LPA) and who can benefit from this.