Living with Dementia

What if I have Dementia?

A diagnosis of dementia usually comes as a shock. However for some people there may also be a sense of relief, that the symptoms they have been experiencing are due to a disease or condition for which help may be available.

Useful Information

The Alzheimer's Society has produced a very helpful factsheet, that suggests things you can do that will help to make life easier and more enjoyable, both now and in the future. Click on the following link for further information:

The Alzheimer's Society produces a monthly magazine Living with Dementia. This is free to members of the Alzheimer’s Society but can be downloaded free from their website irrespective of membership.  They have information about advances in research as well as general issues relating to living with dementia.

Maidstone Dementia Services have produced a useful information booklet ‘Where do I go from Here?’ which can be downloaded via the Maidstone Carers Project website.

For further information please go to Where do I go from Here?

Local Support Groups and Services for people living with dementia

In a support group, members may be people who have dementia or their family member/carer or both, depending on what type of support group it is.

Members usually join to be with others who have similar experiences, to share their concerns and their expertise and develop social networks.

Please go to our Local Support and Services for a list of local support groups and services available in your area.

Further information can be found on the Kent and Medway Partnership Trust (KMPT) Website.

Alzheimer’s & Dementia Support Services (ADSS)

ADSS is a registered charity, which has developed specialist services to support people with dementia and those who care for them in the areas of Dartford, Gravesham and Swanley.

Our primary aim is to help people to remain living in their own home for as long as possible and to support their carers throughout their caring role and beyond, even after that role has ended.

Carers Support Groups

There are currently four carer support groups operating in our area – Dartford, Gravesend, Swanley/Farningham and Meopham. They provide a sociable environment for both carers and those they care for. The groups meet regularly and offer an opportunity to gain support through the shared experiences of others.

One to One Support

This support is offered to carers and those they care for, as and when it is asked for. It can be offered face-to-face at the person’s home, in the offices and even on the telephone.

For further information and more services, please contact:

Alzheimer’s & Dementia Support Services
Basement Flat,
Dene Holm House,
Dene Holm Road,
Northfleet,
Kent
DA11 8JY

Telephone: 01474 533990
Fax: 01474 325133
Email: adminadss@btconnect.com
www.alzheimers-dementia.org.uk

24 Hour Dementia Helpline

If you have concerns about dementia, the 24 Hour Dementia Helpline 0800 500 3014 can provide information, support, guidance and referrals to other appropriate organisations in Kent.

This is a confidential service staffed by highly trained and experienced staff, offering emotional support to anyone calling. It provides information on local and national services specific to Dementia.

You do not need a diagnosed with Dementia to call, people contact the Helpline about many different issues such as bereavement, relationship problems, loneliness/isolation and stress. Ongoing support is available, and they are also there for carers in need of support.

Other forms of support can be the Samaritans on 08457 909090 or RETHINK on 0808 8083333 or Mental Health Matters 0800 107 0160.

Support Online

The Alzheimer's Society has several online forums, where you can meet (on the Internet) other people who are also living with dementia. Click one of the following links to visit them: