Adults
Dementia
Dementia is a broad term for progressive conditions that affect memory, language, problem-solving and daily functioning. Alzheimer's disease is the most common type. Early diagnosis and comprehensive support, for the person and their family, can meaningfully improve quality of life.
Also searched as: Alzheimer's, memory loss, cognitive decline.
What the evidence says
1 in 8
people worldwide live with a mental health condition; dementia adds distinct cognitive and caregiving demands
- Progressive memory loss affecting daily life
- Difficulty with language, planning or problem-solving
- Confusion about time or place
- Changes in mood, personality or behaviour
- Withdrawal from work or social activities
This is a guide, not a diagnosis. Only a qualified professional can assess.
- Cognitive stimulation and reminiscence-based therapy
- Psychiatric management of associated depression, anxiety or agitation
- Occupational therapy to maintain daily living skills
- Caregiver support and education
Not sure yet?
Check the signs in someone you love: Checking on someone you love
Thinking about the person you are worried about over the last month, how often have you noticed these changes? Scored on your device only, nothing is stored, and it is not a diagnosis.
The care pathway
What each professional actually does here
Care for this concern is usually shared. Here is how each discipline contributes, so nothing feels like a black box.
A psychologist offers emotional support, cognitive stimulation and behavioural interventions such as reminiscence therapy, and helps families adjust to the emotional impact of dementia with coping strategies.
Explore this serviceA psychiatrist assesses and manages psychiatric symptoms such as depression, anxiety or agitation that often accompany dementia, prescribing medication where it can ease distress and collaborating with neurologists and geriatricians.
Explore this serviceOccupational therapy helps maintain daily living skills and independence for as long as possible, alongside environmental modifications to support safety at home.
Explore this serviceWho you'd work with
The disciplines involved
You don't have to choose the right professional yourself — we match you after a first conversation.
Psychology
Psychology & Therapy
Evidence-informed therapy for adolescents, adults, couples and older adults- held in a space where you are understood as a whole person.
Learn morePsychiatry
Psychiatry
Careful psychiatric assessment and medication support, always coordinated with your therapist and wider care team.
Learn moreOccupational Therapy
Occupational Therapy
Supporting children and adults to build the everyday skills that make participation, learning and independence possible.
Learn moreQuestions
Dementia: questions people ask us
Short, honest answers about who helps, what to expect and how care is coordinated.
Some slowing in memory and processing is a normal part of ageing; dementia involves a progressive decline that noticeably affects daily functioning and independence.
There is no cure, but medication, cognitive stimulation, occupational therapy and a supportive routine can help manage symptoms and maintain quality of life.
Education, a consistent routine, environmental adjustments and caregiver support all help, alongside professional guidance for behavioural changes.
No, occasional forgetfulness can be normal. A professional assessment is the best way to understand what is happening.
Take the next step
Tell us what's happening, we'll suggest where to start
You don't have to choose the right professional yourself- we match you after a first conversation.