The main benefits of an early Dementia diagnosis

The main benefits of an early Dementia diagnosis

As part of Dementia Action Week, we are sharing content from our Dementia and Mental Health training course.

An early diagnosis is important because it will give the individual time to make choices and decisions about their future and it enables support for them and their family to be put in place.

The main benefits of an early diagnosis:

  1. Time to plan for the future

Plan for the future

The individual, if they have not already done so, should make a will. Registering a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) will allow for an appointed person to make decisions on their behalf if the individual lacks the capacity to do so in the future. There are two types of LPA, Health and Welfare and Property and Affairs.

They may also think about making an ‘Advance Decision’. This is a legally binding document where an individual can make choices in advance about the refusal of treatment; for example, deciding that they do or not want to be resuscitated.

Writing an Advance Statement, sometimes referred to as advance care planning, will ensure that their preferences regarding care and support are considered in their future care.

  1. Medication

Medication

There are medications available which will slow down the progress of some types of dementia. Medication may also help with some of the signs and symptoms that they are experiencing.

  1. Financial support

Financial support

The individual will have time to make sure that their finances are in order. They may still be working and giving it up will make a difference to their income. They may be able to access allowances such as the Personal Independence Payment for those under 65, or an Attendance Allowance for those over 65.

  1. Information and support

Future

Providing information to the individual and their family and carers about dementia, and the support services available to them, will help them to respond and adapt to changes.

The support provided should be person-centred; designed around the needs and wishes of the individual.

Remember that each individual is unique and will be affected by dementia in different ways.

Therapies such as counselling, may assist the individual and their family in coming to terms with their diagnosis.

Cognitive stimulation activities (keeping the brain active), memory aids and the development of coping strategies may help the individual to maintain independence. There are also support groups available, such as dementia cafes, where individuals can share experiences and ideas.

The Community Psychiatric Nurse (CPN) will liaise with the individual and their family. They will provide information about local support services and financial assistance and are available to advise where there are behaviour issues.

We have written 4 blogs for Dementia Awareness Week

Read our other blogs


This content was taken from our Mental Health, Dementia & Learning Disabilities training course. Part of our EduCare for Health & Social Care training package, this course raises awareness and understanding of the signs and symptoms of mental health conditions, dementia and learning disabilities and explains how to help people to exercise their rights. It also provides guidance on delivering person-centred care and covers the fundamentals of capacity and consent.

EduCare for Health & Social Care contains other essential training courses that map to both the Care Certificate and Core Skills Training Framework for Health.

To mark Dementia Action week we are offering 10% off the entire package.

To find out more speak to an advisor today; call us on 01926 436 212, send us an email or complete the enquiry form below.






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