Advice and resources : Understanding dementia
Dementia is an umbrella term for a number of progressive conditions which may affect memory, thinking, problem-solving, language, and possibly mood and behaviour.
Everyone will experience dementia differently, depending on the cause, on which parts of the brain is affected as the condition progresses, and their own personality and circumstances.
Our video course will help you to understand and support someone recently diagnosed with dementia.
You can watch the videos within this page, or go to the playlist on YouTube.
What is dementia?
Part 1
What dementia is, the types of dementia including Alzheimer's, and signs and symptoms.
During this video, you will be asked to pause and go to the following video:
Part 2
Types of dementia, as well as diagnosis.
At certain points during this video, you will be asked to pause and go to the following videos:
Part 3
Treatment and support.
Healthcare research
Dementia research, and how you can take part if you're interested.
New behaviours
Part 1
Understanding and coping with new (changing) behaviours.
Part 2
What it might feel like to have dementia and how to identify triggers to certain behaviours.
Carer wellbeing
Part 1
Wellbeing, and how to identify and manage stress if you're a carer.
Part 2
Tips for reducing stress and the importance of prioritising your wellbeing as a carer.
During this video, you will be asked to pause and go to the following video:
Memory and communication
Part 1
Memory aids and home surveillance.
Part 2
Example scenarios, and the SPECAL approach.
Part 3
What it feels like when your memory lets you down.
Part 4
Communication tips, repeating the same topics, and how to make a decision.
Supporting physical wellbeing
Part 1
Mobility, helping someone up, and making sense of what we see.
Part 2
Personal hygiene, chewing, and swallowing.
Part 3
Toilet habits, continence aids, and sleeping patterns.
Legal matters
Wills, power of attorney, and deputyship.
Driving and firearms licences
When to stop driving, the DVLA process, and firearms guidance.
Caring into the future
Supporting a person with dementia can be positive and rewarding, but it can also be challenging. Looking after yourself is important for both you and the person you are supporting. There are communities you can contact for more information and support.
Council support for carers
Your local authority (council) and charitable organisations offer services to help you in your role as an unpaid carer.
Admiral Nurse
Help carers of younger people with dementia live well, stay safe, keep a sense of purpose and plan for the future.
Alzheimer’s Dementia Support
Covers East Berkshire with social activities, carer support, and dementia-friendly events.
Carers UK
Provides information and advice on caring and helps carers connect with each other.
Dementia Friendly Bracknell Forest
Creating a compassionate, inclusive, and supportive community where people living with dementia and those who care for them feel understood, respected, and empowered to live well.