What is dementia?
Dementia describes a set of symptoms that may include:
- memory loss
- difficulties with thinking
- difficulties with language or problem solving
Dementia is caused when the brain is damaged by diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease or a series of strokes. Dementia is progressive, which means the symptoms will gradually get worse. If you are concerned about your memory, you should first speak with your GP.
The Alzheimers website describes how dementia is diagnosed.
The Memory Assessment Service
The Memory Assessment Service aims to meet the needs of people who are concerned that they may have a memory problem. There are two Memory Assessment Services in Central Bedfordshire, one in the South and one in the North.
The initial stage will be to assess and diagnose the nature of the person’s memory difficulties, report this to their GP and advise on further treatment or support.