Everyone with dementia is different and responds differently.
My mum never accepted that she had dementia, even though the doctor in the memory clinic told her kindly, but clearly that she had Alzheimers.
I never referred to dementia or Alzheimers to her again and just talked about her "memory problem"
What can the Memory clinic, advised by G.P. offer?
Mostly, they can offer a diagnosis.
This is more important than you would think.
I have been trying to get a diagnosis for OH for 10 years. In the early stages it probably didnt matter too much that he didnt have one, but as things have progressed it is becoming more of a problem.
Firstly, if it is Alzheimers, there is medication that can help improve the symptoms. It will not stop the progression of dementia, but it can improve the quality of their life. If it is any other sort of dementia, then there is no medication, but without a diagnosis, you dont know.
Because OH doesnt have a diagnosis there are lots of things that I cannot access -
A very good local dementia hub with lots of services
He has had respite in a care home, but I have been told that if he deteriorates further they would not be able to meet his needs, however dementia homes will not accept him without a diagnosis
I cannot find day care that will accept him for the same reason.
I cannot claim Council Tax disregard
He is not eligible for a Blue Badge
When he is in hospital and they allow carers to visit people with dementia, I am not allowed to visit.
Because he has no diagnosis, when he is in hospital the doctors accept everything that he says at face value which causes a lot of confusion and unnecessary tests and referrals.
I have no validation for my concerns
.