Alzheimers and Dementia

East Riding of Yorkshire is a dementia friendly community.

There are many types of dementia, and none are a natural part of ageing. Dementia is the umbrella term for conditions that affect the brain. Memory problems, like forgetfulness, are just one of the symptoms.

You can continue to live well with dementia. Try to carry on with as many activities as possible. There are many services and groups in the East Riding, libraries and leisure centres that have activities to support people with dementia and their carers.

How does dementia affect wellbeing?

Dementia affects the brain, resulting in memory loss, behaviour changes, difficulty to communicate, loss of sight and hearing and disturbs sleep. It has also been known to cause aggressive behaviour, hallucinations, apathy, depression and anxiety.

Types of dementia include, but are not limited to:

Young onset dementia
Early onset dementia
Alzheimers disease
Vascular dementia
Lewy bodies; and
Frontotemporal

Full information on all of these can be found on NHS Choices.

Looking to improve wellbeing at work?

If you are concerned you may have dementia, speak to your GP about getting an assessment.

When you have been given a diagnosis, it is important to keep up with as many normal activities as possible. While there is no cure for dementia, there are medications that can relieve some symptoms. There are also many non-drug treatments that can help you live an active and well lifestyle.

Getting help and support

Search the Community directory for local groups, clubs, small charities, volunteer-run and social support near you.

Search for dementia related community support

Search the Services directory for local and national services and support you can contact in person, online and over the phone.

Search for dementia related services

How to help others

How can I help an adult friend or relative?

If you are concerned a friend or family member may have dementia, encourage them to see their GP for an assessment as soon as possible. You could attend a support group with them to help give them confidence. Remain patient with them, remembering that dementia can cause behaviour changes as well as memory loss.

Remember there is support for you as a carer as well. It is important to take care of yourself as much as your friend or family member. See the services above for information.

I'm a care worker. How can I help my client?

There is lots of information and guidance on Alzheimers Society your client can look through to better understand their condition. Local guidance using the Ask, Assist, Act model can be found on MECClink.

How can I help people in the workplace?

A dementia diagnosis does not mean a person cannot work, depending on the extent of their condition. Most jobs do not mandate that you have to tell your employer of a diagnosis, unless it becomes a safety issue, such as driving or the armed forces.

As an employer, you must agree to reasonable adjustments to help someone continue working with a dementia diagnosis. This could be allowing them to work from home or an office nearer home, giving them longer or more breaks may help. Discuss with your employee about what would help.