What is the best thing to do if diagnosed with dementia?

Sort out plans for your future i.e. lasting power of attorney

·         See you’re GP and if you haven’t been referred to a memory clinic then ensure that you are as they can help support you and those close to you. They can also try to identify what type of dementia and make sure it’s not another illness mimicking dementia

·         At the memory clinic you may be considered for medications - take expert advice as there are side effects and these may cancel out the benefits

·         Smoking cessation and good treatment of BP and other health issues

·         Financial: How do you wish your finances to be managed when unable to make decisions for yourself

·         Health: How do you wish to be cared for when you are unable to make decisions for yourself? Talk about resuscitation and care at the end of life if this is something that you wish to do.

·         Make a will with a solicitor

·         See everyone important to you

·         Get on with life and do as much to add value and pleasure to every day

·         If it suits move into accommodation that you like and is well supported where you will be able to stay - an apartment is better than a large rambling house       

Reference: Declan O'Kane,