Support for adults with dementia

Understanding dementia and managing symptoms

We can help you understand how dementia is affecting you or the person you care for, help you identify the symptoms, and manage day to day challenges.  

General information on dementias

Alzheimer’s Scotland and Alzheimer’s Research UK have good descriptions of types of common dementias.

Rare Dementia Support offers specialist support for individuals living with, or affected by, a rare dementia diagnosis. 

Young Dementia Network is an online community of people living with young onset dementia with resources, advice and support.

Reading Well for Dementia has a useful reading list with information, advice and support as well as personal stories and age-appropriate books for children. 

Practical coping strategies

We can discuss practical suggestions on how to manage symptoms of dementia, including memory aids and strategies. We can also discuss medication options. 

Managing associated conditions

Some people with dementia may have other conditions such as depression, anxiety, delirium and agitation. There are some useful websites with information about managing these:

Driving and dementia

A diagnosis of dementia is not in itself a reason to stop driving. The most important issue is whether you or the person you care for can still drive safely.

Your doctor may advise you to stop driving, or to have a formal driving assessment at the Scottish Driving Assessment Service.

Alzheimer’s UK advises what to think about if you or the person you care for intends to drive after their diagnosis.

Inform the DVLA

You need to inform the DVLA that you intend to keep driving. Some people use this example letter to do so. You should also let your insurance company know.

Wellbeing - Mental Health support

GP practice

There is support for mental health and well being within your GP practice. They can offer therapeutic help and can sign post your to relevant services.

  • Ask your GP or ask the reception to refer you.

Guided Self-Help with Health in Mind

One-to-one support to access self-help materials to enable you to make positive changes in your life. Based on the principles of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

SilverCloud digital therapy

Online programmes with support based on therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), mindfulness and positive psychology. There are specific programmes for anxiety, depression, OCD, Panic, Phobia and a long-term condition (Chronic pain, Coronary heart disease, Diabetes – types 1 & 2, Lung conditions including COPD, Rheumatoid arthritis).

  • Ask your GP to refer you

SilverCloud modules

Online modules to support wellbeing including sleep, resilience, stress, money worries, body image and self-management.

ieso typed therapy

One-to-one text or video Cognitive Behavioural Therapy sessions to help with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, OCD, phobias, sleep problems, and stress.

British Red Cross

Local social support groups alongside physical/hobby-based activities.

Thistle Foundation Wellbeing service

One to one and group support for people with long-term health conditions and/or facing challenging life situations. They offer wellbeing coaching and lifestyle management and mindfulness courses

Green Social Prescription

Support to connect with nature. 

Cruse Bereavement Support

One to one and group grief support, as well as a bereavement helpline and a webchat service.

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