The table below outlines a typical ‘medical’ journey for a person with dementia.
| Stage | Likely happenings |
|---|---|
| Local GP Health Centre | GP may undertake a basic dementia test and look for possible causes. GP may arrange for a blood test. GP may make a referral to the local Mental Health team |
| Mental Health Team | Diagnostic testing undertaken to assist with diagnosis. Likely to be a consultant psychiatrist examining and delivering the results. NB – could be a waiting time for an appointment |
| Formal Diagnosis | If diagnostic tests reveal the person is likely to have dementia, personalised medicine may be offered (e.g. prescription medicine). A referral for a Care Manager/Social Worker to be appointed may be made. |
| Continue Living at Home | The person, their family & friends are involved in this decision. A ‘capacity assessment’ may take place by a Care Manager/Social Worker. Domiciliary Care may be offered if eligible and available in local area. |
| No longer safe Living at Home | Care Manager/Social Worker make the decision alongside input from the person, family & friends. If the person is unwilling to accept a move into professional care a DoLS* may be required. |
| Professional Care Setting | The person moves into professional care home setting for 24/7 care (Residential or Nursing). |
For more independent information visit our Partners section.
