Dementia

Book a consultation with one of our doctors if:

You're experiencing forgetfulness that disrupts your daily life (forgetting appointments, important events, where you placed things frequently).
You're noticing difficulty with familiar tasks like managing finances, cooking, or following directions.
You've observed changes in your thinking or reasoning abilities (confusion, difficulty concentrating, making decisions).
You or loved ones have noticed changes in your mood or behaviour (increased anxiety, withdrawal, unusual outbursts).
You're concerned about your memory or cognitive function in general
You experience sudden and severe confusion or disorientation.

Information

Book a consultation with one of our doctors if:

You're experiencing forgetfulness that disrupts your daily life (forgetting appointments, important events, where you placed things frequently).
You're noticing difficulty with familiar tasks like managing finances, cooking, or following directions.
You've observed changes in your thinking or reasoning abilities (confusion, difficulty concentrating, making decisions).
You or loved ones have noticed changes in your mood or behaviour (increased anxiety, withdrawal, unusual outbursts).
You're concerned about your memory or cognitive function in general
You experience sudden and severe confusion or disorientation.

Do’s:

Maintain a routine: Create a daily schedule for meals, medications, and activities to provide structure and comfort.
Focus on communication: Use short, simple sentences, speak slowly and clearly, and make eye contact.
Encourage physical activity: Exercise can improve mood, sleep, and cognitive function for some people with dementia.
Promote social interaction: Socialisation can help maintain cognitive function and reduce feelings of isolation.
Validate their feelings: Listen patiently and acknowledge their emotions, even if they seem confused or upset.
Break down tasks: Divide complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
Provide visual cues: Use pictures, labels, and calendars to help them remember things.
Create a safe environment: Dementia-proof your home to minimise risks of falls and injuries.
Seek support: Don't hesitate to seek support from family therapists, social workers, or dementia support groups.
Educate yourself: Learn as much as you can about dementia to better understand your loved one's experience.

Don'ts:

Argue or correct: Avoid confrontations or trying to correct mistaken memories.
Speak in a condescending tone: Treat them with respect and patience.
Rush them: Allow them time to complete tasks or answer questions.
Isolate them: Social interaction is important for maintaining cognitive function and well-being.
Make them feel helpless: Encourage independence for tasks they can still manage.
Ignore safety risks: Modify their environment to prevent falls or injuries.
Become overwhelmed: Seek support from family, friends, or professional caregivers to avoid burnout.
Blame yourself: Dementia is a disease, and you're not to blame.
Give up hope: While there's no cure, there are ways to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Possible Questions:

Can you describe any memory problems you've been experiencing? (e.g., forgetting names, appointments, events)
Have you noticed any changes in your thinking or reasoning abilities? (e.g., difficulty concentrating, making decisions)
Are you having trouble with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, or managing finances?
Have you noticed any changes in your mood or behaviour? (e.g., feeling more withdrawn, anxious, or irritable)
Have you experienced any difficulties with communication, such as finding the right words or following a conversation?
Have you had any falls or accidents recently?
How are you sleeping at night?
Do you have any pre-existing medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, high blood pressure)?
Are you currently taking any medications?
Have you ever had a head injury or stroke?
Does anyone in your family have a history of dementia?
What is your typical daily routine?
Do you live alone or with others?
Are you still driving or using public transportation?
Do you participate in any social activities?

1.Symptoms

What are the common symptoms of dementia?

Dementia can cause a variety of symptoms, but some of the most common include:
- Memory loss, especially recent memories
- Difficulty concentrating, thinking, or problem-solving
- Changes in mood, behaviour, or personality
- Confusion and disorientation
- Difficulty with language and communication
- Visit our Symptoms & Causes page for more information

Should I see a doctor if I experience these symptoms, or notice them in a loved one?

Yes, it's important to see a doctor if you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms. Early diagnosis of dementia can help with treatment planning and improve quality of life. Visit our Symptoms & Causes page for more information

2.Diagnosis

How is dementia diagnosed?

There is no single test for dementia. LIPS doctors use a comprehensive approach to diagnosis, including:
- Medical history and physical exam
- Cognitive assessments
- Blood tests
- Brain imaging scans (CT or MRI)
- Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information

What happens during a consultation for dementia at LIPS?

During your consultation, a LIPS doctor will discuss your symptoms or your loved one's symptoms, medical history, and family history. They will also perform a physical and cognitive assessment. Based on this information, the doctor will recommend the most appropriate diagnostic tests.

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

3.Treatment

What are the treatment options for dementia?

While there is no cure for dementia, there are treatments available to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These may include:
- Medications to improve memory and cognitive function
- Therapy to manage behavioural changes
- Support groups and educational resources
- Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information

How can LIPS help me or my loved one with dementia?

LIPS offers a compassionate and supportive environment for dementia care. Our team of specialists will work with you and your family to develop a personalised care plan that addresses your specific needs and goals.

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

4.Insurance

At LIPS we work with a wide range of insurance providers

Will my insurance cover dementia treatment?

Coverage for dementia treatment can vary depending on your individual insurance plan. We recommend contacting your insurance provider directly to determine your specific coverage. Our team at LIPS can also assist you with obtaining pre-authorisation from your insurance company if needed.

How does LIPS work with the National Health Service?

Our goal is to give you answers as quickly as possible and get you on the right treatment path fast – no strings attached. When you come to us, you will be seen by a qualified specialist who can determine if your situation is serious or not that same day. We don’t want you to wait weeks on end for an appointment because every minute counts when it comes to something as important as your health. If your situation is serious, our specialist will write to your doctor on the NHS advising them that you need an urgent appointment.