Social Prescribing Resource Sheet:
Dementia Post Diagnosis

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What happens next? 

Once an individual has been referred to the Memory Assessment Team, they should be contacted by the pre-diagnosis team at the Dementia Co-Ordinator service. They will support and guide individuals through the assessment process and provide support during the period of time before a diagnosis is made. 

When a diagnosis is confirmed the Dementia Post-diagnosis team are involved to provide a continuous point of contact, advice and signpost to community support. 

If you need to contact the Dementia Co-Ordinator service, you can call 0300 123 1916 or Visit the Help and Care website.

Visit the Dorset Healthcare Dementia care website.

Things to think about now

The benefit of having a diagnosis of Dementia is that there is clarity on an individual’s situation and having the understanding and knowledge can be useful in thinking ahead to the future. 

Future Care Planning should be looked at now to ensure that the individuals wishes are recorded. Talking about preferences for future care, making advance decisions for medical treatment or the refusal of. Considering representatives for lasting power of attorneys for health and/or financial decisions in the event of capacity changes.

For individuals who are driving, they will also need to notify the DVLA of their diagnosis. 

Adult Social Care Assessments 

A care needs assessment can be useful to an individual with Dementia to identify any areas in which they may need support to continue to live independently and to ensure continued quality of life. If an individual required support to meet the personal care needs, then a financial assessment will be completed as well to determine if there is a need for the Council to fund this provision. Dorset residents can contact the Adult Access team directly to arrange this. Phone them on 01305 221016. 

Carers for those with Dementia can also request a Carer assessment by Contacting the Adult Access team. Please also see the Carers resource sheet for more information.

If an individual is over state pension age and needs support daily with their diagnosis, then they will be eligible for Attendance Allowance. Visit the Attendance Allowance page on GOV.UK.

Wellbeing and ongoing community support 

Having the opportunity to access support clubs and classes specifically for those living with Dementia can be invaluable in improving the quality of life for individuals and their carers. Below is a list of clubs that are currently running for those affected by Dementia.

Online Support 

Helplines

Both the Alzheimer’s society and Dementia UK have trained individuals on hand to answer questions and queries. 

Mental Health Support

Dealing with a diagnosis of Dementia or caring for a loved one affected by the disease can be a difficult time. Counselling and talking therapy can be a good first step in managing feelings and expectations. Below are a few services that individuals can self-refer to. If further assistance is needed in respect to Mental health, do contact the GP or Social Prescribing team direct.