Benefits of Memory Assessment Referral

Introduction

Nationally, data shows that between a third and a halfof people living with dementia still do not have a formal diagnosis, and are not able to access treatments and support. In Bedfordshire, the latest estimate is that we are achieving this for 52% of those with dementia.

One of the blocks to increasing this figure is the outdated perception of individuals and professionals that there is nothing that can be done and there is no support available. However, this is no longer the case. Listed below are the key points that challenge this false belief:

Key Points:

  • Dementia is not a normal part of ageing,
  • Diagnosis rates are still low at around 52%, therefore there are lots of people living with dementia with no diagnosis,
  • Currently out of those referred to a memory assessment, over 66% are diagnosed with dementia,
  • People with symptoms associated with the possible onset of dementia may not directly ask to be assessed because of fear and the stigma associated with a diagnosis of dementia,
  • There are lots of benefits/reasons for someone to have a formal diagnosis, and for the diagnosis to happen early on in the progression of the disease,
  • There is support available for people diagnosed with dementia, even if there is no cure, people can live well with dementia whilst maintaining their independence for longer. The newly launched locality leaflets detail what support is available locally for people with dementia and their carers,
  • A Directed Enhanced Service is being offered to increase diagnosis rates.

Earlier diagnosis can:

  • Improve access to appropriate treatment and support
  • Allow individuals and their families more time to prepare for the future and make good future decisions. For example:

Organising wills and Lasting Power of Attorney. This enables the person with dementia to have a say about their future and their future wishes whilst they are still able to do so

Seeking advice around financial affairs andmake future arrangements regarding finances

Advance care planningto allow individuals to continue to live at home

Seeking benefits advice and support (such as disability living allowance and council tax reduction)

  • Offer timely access to advice, information and support (emotional, practical and financial) from voluntary agenciesand social services

Information on help available at home or in the community such as from community mental health teams, dieticians, speech and language and occupational therapists

Support groups for the person with dementia

Support groups for carers

Cognitive stimulation

Befriending

Respite

Adopting health lifestyles

Direct payments

Carer’s assessments

Carer’s breaks

Advice about driving

  • Improve the quality of life of people with dementiaenabling them to live well with dementia for longer and stay at home for longer
  • Improve the quality of life for the carers enabling them to remain physically and mentally well and in their caring role for longer

False beliefs that lead to inactivity in seeking and offering help