What happens if a diagnosis of dementia is made?
The health professional will discuss the findings of the brain scan and ECG, as well as all other information that has been used to formulate the diagnosis with the Multi-Disciplinary Team. If appropriate they may suggest commencing treatment or medication. They will also recommend an introduction to the local dementia support services which are provided by Making Space (in Derby City) and the Alzheimer’s Society (in Derbyshire County). There may also be a recommendation to join the Living Well with Dementia Group Programme.
Dementia and Driving
A diagnosis of dementia is not in itself a reason to stop driving, however over time dementia affects the skills needed for safe driving.
Drivers with dementia must tell their licensing agency and car insurer straight away when a diagnosis is received.
Find out more about UK law on driving and dementia on the link here: The law on driving and dementia | Alzheimer's Society (alzheimers.org.uk)
What happens if there is not a clear diagnosis?
Sometimes, the health professional might need to gather more information and when this happens, they may advise a follow-up with the psychology team. The individual will then be seen by a Clinical Psychologist or Clinical Neuropsychologist who will speak with them and complete neuropsychological assessments. These are paper and pencil tasks that help us to understand more about how their brain is functioning. This provides a further layer of information, which will give us a better understanding of what may be causing their memory difficulties.
