Dementia
Memory problems can be caused by a number of health problems, not just dementia. If you are worried, it's best you get support and advice.
Take me to Recognising the signs ↘ Get a diagnosis ↘ Support after a diagnosis ↘ Support organisations ↘ Support for carers ↘ Get help from us ↘
Recognising the signs
Dementia describes a set of symptoms that may include memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problem-solving or language, mood and behaviour.
The condition is caused by diseases that affect the brain. The most common of these is Alzheimer's disease. For more information, read Alzheimer's Society's guide, 'What is Dementia?'
A person with dementia will have cognitive symptoms (to do with thinking or memory). The NHS has more information on the symptoms of dementia.
Get a diagnosis
If you are worried that your memory or that of someone you know, is getting noticeably worse, or if memory loss is beginning to affect everyday life, it is worth seeking advice.
Read the Alzheimer's Society guide, 'How can I tell if I have dementia' for more information.
The first step should be to visit your GP who will listen to your concerns and rule out any other causes of your memory loss. There are many reasons for memory loss other than dementia. It is best to seek help as early as possible as there may be support or treatment available.
Your GP may refer you to a local memory clinic. There they will provide an assessment of your situation, diagnose your condition and can link you into a wide range of support services.
Support after a diagnosis
Getting a diagnosis gives you and your family the best chance to prepare and plan for the future, to help understand your condition and help you and your family live well.
There is no clinical cure for dementia, but some symptoms can be treated, and there is support available to help.
The NHS gives more details on medicines and treatments and how to live well with dementia.
The NHS has a guide to support you and your family after a dementia diagnosis.
Support organisations
If you have a diagnosis of dementia, you can continue to take an active part in the community and live as normal a life as possible.
Dementia Connect is Alzheimer’s Society’s online services directory, for anyone affected by dementia. By entering a postcode or area name, you can find local voluntary, statutory and private services near you.
Alzheimer's Society offers a wide range of guidance and support for people with dementia and their families. Local Dementia Cafes offer activities, games, talks and discussion in a relaxed social setting. Staff are on hand with advice and information.
Singing for the Brain sessions help people build on their memory for song and music. Even when other memories are hard to retrieve, music is easy to recall.
Age UK Redbridge, Barking and Havering offers lunch clubs, social activities, exercise classes and much more.
My Health London has signs and symptoms of dementia, how to live well with dementia and caring for someone with dementia.
The Young Dementia Network supports people living with young onset dementia, their family and friends.
Support for carers
If you look after someone with dementia, you could be eligible for extra support.
You can find out more about getting a carer's assessment, respite care and financial support for carers on our caring for someone section.
Get help from us
If you need support in your daily activities or care for somebody who does, you can contact Redbridge Adult Social Services.
We will carry out an assessment of needs. This assessment will identify what your needs are, what problems you are facing and how you can be helped.
If your needs meet the eligibility criteria, then you will receive services from the council.
