I'm Louise Robinson. I'm a GP and a dementia care researcher.
I'm here today to give you some top tips, and hopefully reassure you about going to see your GP
if you're having memory problems.
Becoming forgetful is a normal part of ageing, just like getting grey hairs.
However, sometimes, you may find that you're experiencing memory problems
which are causing you or your loved ones concern.
For example, you may find that you are forgetting people's names more often
or forgetting where you are when you're out shopping.
You may also be experiencing difficulties with carrying out some simple tasks, like how to use a remote control on the television.
You may find that you’re getting very down and frustrated about this, and your family are becoming more concerned.
In these circumstances, you should go and see your GP to discuss your worries.
Before you go and see the GP, there are some simple tips that might help when you talk to them.
For example, writing down all your worries and concerns.
If you’re having difficulty doing this, the Alzheimer’s Society website has a checklist which you can use to help you,
and prompt you about the symptoms you may be experiencing.
Taking a family member or a friend with you will give you confidence, but also allow the GP
to explore their worries and concerns.
When you go and the see your GP, the first thing they will do is listen to your concerns.
They will also ask the opinion of your friend or loved one, and ask what their worries are.
They will also want to examine you, both physically and also testing your mental abilities.
For example, they might ask you some questions, like remembering a name and address, or drawing a clock face.
Then they may organise some simple tests, like blood tests and/or a heart recording.
If they cannot find a treatable cause, they may then be concerned about an illness called dementia,
and ask your permission to refer you to a memory clinic, or another specialist clinic, for a further assessment.
Dementia is an illness. It can cause a range of symptoms, from difficulty with communication, such as finding words,
to memory problems,
but also difficulty carrying out activities of daily living, confusion, and sometimes personality changes.
Dementia is an illness where the symptoms will get worse with time. Therefore, it’s really important that you seek help
and get a diagnosis as soon as you are concerned.
Getting a diagnosis of dementia, although it sounds frightening or may upset you, means that you can access
the treatment and support that can help you live with these distressing symptoms.
In my experience as a GP, most people are relieved to find out that they have an explanation for the symptoms.
Organisations such as Alzheimer’s Society can provide a wealth of support and advice to help families live well with dementia.
Alzheimer’s Society is here for you. Even before you get the diagnosis, they can help you with advice about your memory.
Once you have the diagnosis, their website is full of information, and you can see people talking about their experiences
of living with dementia.
You can also access a trained dementia adviser.
Local services can provide support, such as Dementia Cafes and Family Carer Support groups.
Most importantly, they know exactly what it’s like to live with dementia and have lots of people there who can help you,
as well as other families living with the illness.
If you are living with dementia, or know someone who is living with dementia, Alzheimer’s Society support line is here for you.