What's Normal, What's Not, and When to Seek Help

Forgetfulness is a common complaint among older adults. You start to talk about a movie you saw recently when you realise you can’t remember the title. You’re giving directions to your house when you suddenly blank on a familiar street name. You find yourself standing in the middle of the kitchen wondering what you went in there for.

Memory lapses can be frustrating, but most of the time they aren’t cause for concern. Age-related memory changes are not the same thing as dementia...Read More

If you and your GP remain concerned you can be referred to our local memory service

https://www.sussexpartnership.nhs.uk/our-services/specialist-older-adults-and-dementia-services/memory-assessment-service

Following referral your memory will be more formally tested and if concerns remain you will be referred for a CT scan of the brain. 

Once the scan has been carried out a follow up appointment will be made where results are given and if possible a diagnosis and a plan will be made.

The word ‘dementia’ describes a set of symptoms that may include memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problem-solving or language. These changes are often small to start with, but for someone with dementia they have become severe enough to affect daily life. A person with dementia may also experience changes in their mood or behaviour.

Dementia is caused when the brain is damaged by diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease or a series of strokes.

If you or your loved one is diagnosed with a dementia they will be contacted by a Dementia Advisor from the Alzheimer's Society.

You may see them straight after your MAS appointment or the Dementia Advisor will contact you as soon as possible afterwards.

You will also be assigned a Dementia Support Worker by the Alzheimer's Society, who will provide support to any carers or relatives involved with you.

MAS also run an extensive group programme with talks eg Understanding Dementia, open to both the patient and their carer. 

Groups like the Cognitive Stimulation Group and Living Well With Dementia group, are available for the person with dementia.

Medication may be offered, the Memory Assessment Service doctor or Nurse Prescriber will provide you with a three month prescription and you will be reviewed during that period.

Once you are stabilised on your medication you will be discharged back to the care of your GP. 

Later if you or your loved one needs further support from specialist dementia services your GP can reassess and refer you back.