Dementia

Identifying dementia 

Dementia is a term to describe a group of symptoms of more than 100 conditions, for example Parkinson’s Disease, Alzheimer’s Disease, and vascular dementia. There are many different causes and it affects people of all ages and backgrounds, and in different ways.

Symptoms can include:

• memory loss
• confusion and difficulties with thinking
• problem solving
• perception or language

Visit your GP as soon as possible if you, or someone you care for, are experiencing symptoms of dementia. Early diagnosis will help you access the relevant treatment and support.

Help and support for people with dementia 

As your illness develops it is likely that you will need extra help with daily activities.

Dementia support and advice service 

Dementia Forward is a North Yorkshire charity who provide support and information on dementia to any resident in the county. They offer personal support through:

• a helpline – call Dementia Forward on 0330 057 8592 
• home visits
• wellbeing groups

Find out more by visiting the Dementia Forward website. 

Request support from adult social care 

You can complete a needs self-assessment. This will let our adult social care team know what help you, or someone you care for, might benefit from. 

Please note: We are experiencing high levels of demand, which means we may not be able to arrange an assessment as quickly as we would like. If you have contacted us and are waiting for a response, please be assured that we have received your information and will be in touch with you as soon as possible.

Support for carers and family 

Our carers section provides information and support to those who are looking after someone.

Carers can complete our online carers assessment to request help to support them in their role. 

Dementia support at your local library 

All of our libraries are dementia friendly:

• they provide access to health information
• have dementia friendly spaces
• have events for people with dementia
• have staff trained in dementia awareness

To find out more visit our help with health and wellbeing from your library page.