First Things First
For some people, actually getting a diagnosis of Dementia may seem like the final step in a long and exhausting process of waiting, tests, appointments, waiting, and more tests! Although it seems like the diagnosis is a milestone within itself, it is actually at this point that things need to be instigated.
If you have a carer, family member, or friend who can support and guide you through this process, then it can make the whole situation much easier. If you are living alone and do not have any immediate family, then attending to your affairs alone is quite manageable providing that you start soon after your diagnosis and get all the right information prepared in advance. If you feel that this could be too much for you to manage alone, then you should contact your local health professional or support worker and tell them you need help. Some of the main issues you need to address are concerning your financial and capital assets. These are covered under the Advocacy heading in this section of the website.
Other issues may involve receipt of benefits or income supplements such as Attendance Allowance/Disability Living Allowance, Housing Benefit (if in rented accommodation), Council Tax Rebate/Exemption, and State Pension Allowance (benefits are usually set up for an assessed income period). You should apply for all benefits that you think you are eligible for. Usually it will take quite a while after applying before the paperwork is processed and payments can begin. Don't worry if this stage appears to take longer than you would expect.
It is also advisable at this stage to find out as much information as you can concerning the type of Dementia you have been diagnosed with, the different ways it may affect you, the timescales involved, and treatments or therapies that can help. Your local health professional will be able to give guidance in this area, but you can never have too much information, and as your memory will eventually be affected, it would be wise to have the information at hand for anyone who will be involved in your care to read and understand. Also, as treatments are being constantly developed and refined, it is a good idea to keep on top of current developments with regards to Dementia.
In addition to these initial steps, you should also investigate what services are available from public and third sector organisations such as Social Services, Council Carers, Pensioners Advocacy Service, Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS), Personal Service Society (PSS), Age Concern, Age UK, and The Alzheimers Society. These organisations may be able to help with assistive technology supplies, respite, support workers, assessments, or any other aspect of your lifestyle that is affected by Dementia. For details on contacting these organisations, please see the 'Services' section of this website, and look under the relevant category.
