Supporting our patients with dementia

In the UK, dementia is a leading cause of death. One person is diagnosed every three minutes, and around one million people are currently living with dementia. This figure is expected to rise to more than 1.4 million by 2040.

What is dementia?

Dementia can affect memory, thinking, problem-solving, language, emotions and perception. It is caused by damage to brain cells. As more nerve cells are affected, the brain can shrink, and the symptoms a person experiences will depend on which areas of the brain are damaged. For example, one person may have changes to speech and language, while another may notice difficulties with memory or balance. Everyone’s experience of dementia is different.

Types of dementia

Alzheimer’s disease is the most well-known type of dementia, followed by vascular dementia, but there are over 100 different dementia diagnoses.

Our commitment at Westleigh Dental Care

We support an ageing patient population and are increasingly seeing patients who are living with dementia. We understand this can be challenging for the person with dementia, as well as for families and carers who provide support.

Following guidance from the Alzheimer’s Society, our team has recently completed dementia training. This has helped us review how we support patients with dementia and identify ways we can improve their experience with us.

What the training covered

  • Understanding dementia
  • Supporting patients with dementia
  • Creating dementia-friendly environments
  • Responding to distressed behaviours
  • Engaging with people in the early stages of dementia

What you can expect from us

  • Appointments at a time of day that suits you best
  • Clear signage and an environment that is easy to navigate
  • Friendly, approachable staff who will listen and give you time to raise concerns, book appointments, discuss treatment options and make payments
  • Longer appointments where needed, and the option of a downstairs surgery
  • A quieter space if noise is distracting (for example, we can turn off the TV or offer a private room)
  • The option to bring someone with you to appointments to help you understand and remember what’s been discussed
  • Written treatment plans and appointment cards to support you in remembering dates and next steps
  • Appointment confirmations by email, text or phone

We want to help. If there are other ways we can support you or improve your experience, please let us know.