Dementia and memory
Memory loss can disrupt daily life and may be a symptom of Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Obtaining a proper diagnosis of dementia is vital as it helps to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms so that you receive the correct treatment options. If you think that you, or someone you care for is suffering from memory loss please contact your GP to be referred for an assessment.
Camden Memory Service
Camden Memory Service provides advice and support for people who are worried about their memory. To access this service you should first speak to your GP who can refer you. After you are referred by your GP, the Camden Memory Service will phone you to talk about your concerns and treatment options.
Sometimes it can be a good idea to have a family member, friend or carer involved in the assessment. With your permission they can contact someone you trust for more information.
If dementia is diagnosed, you along with your family or carers will be given information about the condition and the range of local services that can help to meet your needs.
For more information about the Camden Memory Service, contact them on:
Phone: 020 3317 6584
Email:[email protected]
Website: https://www.candi.nhs.uk/services/camden-memory-service
Getting help from Adult Social Care
If you are diagnosed with dementia and you need practical support at home or with getting out and about, contact the Adult Social Care Access and Response Team on 020 7974 4000 (select option 1) and request a Care Act assessment to discuss your care and support needs. Visit the Care and support needs section to find out more.
The assessment is a conversation with Adult Social Care to work out what care and support. arrangements you might need, based on what is important to you.
Other help and support available
If you receive a diagnosis there are some support options available in Camden.
Age UK Camden run a Dementia Wellbeing and Dementia Befriending service that provides specialist support to Camden residents aged 55 and over who are in the early or moderate stages of dementia, to live independently and safely at home for as long as possible, stay socially engaged. Age UK Camden are contactable by phone on 020 7239 0400.
Camden Carers provide support for Dementia Carers. Support includes health and wellbeing, day events for carers and people with dementia, involvement with local policy makers and other local groups. Camden Carers Service are also contactable by phone on 020 7428 8950.
The NHS provide information About Dementia, such as understanding some of the signs of dementia, why it is important to get a diagnosis, and what we can all do to help with the dementia challenge.
The Dementia Action Alliance aims to enable people to live well with dementia. The Camden Dementia Action Alliance brings together organisations working across the borough to develop Camden into a Dementia Friendly Community. Organisations are free to join the Alliance and they can find out more details by emailing Miles Maier at [email protected].
West Hampstead Community Centre are hosting a free Memory Cafe, open to people experiencing memory loss, and their friends and carers. For full details please download the flyer, phone Darshan Vora on 0203 921 1111, or email [email protected].