There is still time to share your views on how Scotland should develop a strategy on Dementia support and services which closes on 5th December.

There is a a short discusssion paper. and an audio version of the document to ensure it is accessible to a wide range of communities.

The aim of the consultation (or discussion) about Dementia is to use the responses from as wide a range of people as possible so that the new strategy reflects the current situation and develops a future support plan that is responding to real needs.

What is dementia

Dementia is a syndrome (a group of related symptoms) associated with an ongoing decline of brain functioning.

There are many different causes of dementia, and many different types. 

People often get confused about the difference between Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia and, together with vascular dementia, makes up the majority of cases.

Symptoms of dementia

Dementia symptoms may include problems with:

• memory loss
• thinking speed
• mental sharpness and quickness
• language, such as using words incorrectly, or trouble speaking
• understanding
• judgement
• mood
• movement
• difficulties doing daily activities

People with dementia can lose interest in their usual activities, and may have problems managing their behaviour or emotions.

They may also find social situations difficult and lose interest in relationships and socialising. 

Aspects of their personality may change, and they may lose empathy (understanding and compassion).

A person with dementia may see or hear things that other people do not (hallucinations). 

Because people with dementia may lose the ability to remember events, or not fully understand their environment or situations, it can seem as if they’re not telling the truth or are wilfully ignoring problems.

As dementia affects a person’s mental abilities, they may find planning and organising difficult. Maintaining their independence may also become a problem.

A person with dementia will usually need help from friends or relatives, including help with making decisions.

The symptoms of dementia usually become worse over time. In the late stage of dementia, people will not be able to take care of themselves and may lose their ability to communicate.

Read more about the symptoms of dementia. via NHS Inform

To share your views and experiences:

You can respond in writing by responding to the consultation via Citizen Space.

To enable people to respond how they choose you can also send in video and audio clips of people responding to these questions. Please email dementiapolicy@gov.scot for details on how to do so.

A National Conversation to inform a New Dementia Strategy for Scotland
As an individual with an interest in the lives of people living with dementia, and those providing care/support:

1. What does dementia mean to you and those around you?

2. What supports work well for you?

3. What challenges need to be addressed?

4. How would addressing these challenges change lives?

5. What do we need to build on/learn from what has been done before?

6. What else would you like to tell us?

Useful link Alzheimer Scotland