The Initial Diagnosis: Memory Assessment Services
Following concerns from a person, family member, or GP, the NHS's process for dementia support often begins with a referral to a Memory Assessment Service (MAS). These services are staffed by a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including neurologists, psychiatrists, and specialist nurses, who conduct a range of tests to confirm a diagnosis.
What a MAS assessment involves:
- Detailed cognitive tests to evaluate memory, thinking, and problem-solving skills.
- Discussions about the person's symptoms and how they are affecting daily life.
- Physical examinations and blood tests to rule out other potential causes of symptoms.
- In some cases, brain imaging such as CT or MRI scans may be used.
After a diagnosis is made, the MAS team works with the individual and their family to create a personalised care plan. This plan is a vital document that outlines the person's needs, how they will be met, and who will coordinate the support.
Medical and Therapeutic Interventions
Medication can be a significant part of an NHS-led care plan, especially for certain types of dementia. For example, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors may be prescribed for early to mid-stage Alzheimer's disease to help manage symptoms. These medications can only be prescribed by a specialist but can be managed by a GP under their guidance.
Non-medicinal therapies:
The NHS also facilitates access to a range of proven therapeutic treatments:
- Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST): Involves engaging in themed group activities and exercises to help improve memory and problem-solving skills.
- Cognitive Rehabilitation: Works with an occupational therapist and family members to set and achieve personal goals, such as re-learning how to use a mobile phone.
- Reminiscence and Life Story Work: Utilises prompts like photos, music, and favourite objects to help individuals recall and share past experiences, which can improve mood and wellbeing.
Practical Help via Social Services
While the NHS handles the medical side of care, it collaborates closely with local council social services for practical, day-to-day support. A needs assessment conducted by social services can identify areas where help is needed. If the assessment shows a need for support, a financial assessment (means test) will determine eligibility for council funding.
Types of social services support:
- Carers to assist with personal care, such as washing and dressing.
- Day centres, providing social activities and a chance for carers to have a break.
- Respite care, which can be short-term breaks for either the person with dementia or their carer.
- Home adaptations and equipment to make living at home easier and safer.
Specialist Nursing and Expert Guidance
For many families, specialist nurses offer a lifeline of clinical and emotional support. The NHS, in partnership with the charity Dementia UK, provides Admiral Nurses, who are dementia specialists.
Admiral Nurses offer practical guidance and emotional support to families affected by dementia, helping them navigate complex care needs and services. They work in various settings, including the community, hospitals, and care homes, and can be accessed through the Admiral Nurse Dementia Helpline.
Financial Support for Complex Needs
For those with significant and complex health needs, the NHS provides specific funding streams to cover care costs.
Comparing NHS continuing healthcare and NHS-funded nursing care
| Feature | NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) | NHS-Funded Nursing Care (FNC) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Covers the full cost of a person's care, regardless of setting, if their primary need is health-related. | A contribution towards the cost of nursing care for those in a nursing home who do not qualify for CHC. |
| Assessment | A comprehensive assessment by a team of healthcare professionals is required. | A simpler assessment to confirm the need for nursing care. |
| Funding | Entirely free, not means-tested. | A flat-rate payment, not means-tested. |
| Eligibility | Requires a complex and severe 'primary health need'. A dementia diagnosis alone does not guarantee eligibility. | Must be in a nursing home and require care from a registered nurse. |
Ongoing Management and Support
Post-diagnosis, the NHS ensures ongoing monitoring through regular GP check-ups and care plan reviews (at least annually). The NHS also provides a wealth of educational resources and signposting to charitable organisations for additional support.
Sign up for support
For example, the NHS website's Dementia Information Service offers a weekly email service for six weeks, providing essential guidance after a dementia diagnosis. This comprehensive approach ensures that individuals and their families are never alone on their journey.
Conclusion
From the moment a diagnosis is confirmed, the NHS provides a structured and comprehensive framework of support for people with dementia. This includes a clear care pathway encompassing medical treatment, therapeutic interventions, practical social care, and specialist nursing. By working with local councils and charitable organisations, the NHS ensures a holistic approach to care, empowering individuals to live as well as possible with their condition, and providing crucial support for their families and carers.
For more information on the full scope of dementia care options, including social care, visit the official NHS website via the Dementia, social services and the NHS page.
