Dementia Action Week (18th-24th May 2026) is a time for us to come together and take action to improve the lives of those living with dementia. In the UK, 1 in 3 people living with dementia remain undiagnosed, highlighting how vital it is to raise awareness of the condition that affects so many.
At Springfield, we understand that a dementia diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but we also know that with the right support, it is possible to live an enjoyable and comfortable life. In line with Dementia Action Week this week, we have put together a guide on the early symptoms to look out for, the next steps you should take after a diagnosis, and how the Springfield team can be a part of your journey.
Spotting the Early Signs of Dementia
Identifying the early signs of dementia can be challenging as they are often subtle at first. However, as these symptoms become more persistent, they can begin to impact an individual’s daily life in ways that shouldn’tbe ignored. These early signs of dementia include:
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Memory Loss: struggling with memory is one of the most well-known early signs of dementia. An individual may begin to have difficulties with remembering information that was learned recently and forgetting important dates or events. A person with dementia may also ask the same questions multiple times and lose key items such as house keys.
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Challenges with speaking and writing: someone with dementia may have problems with following or joining a conversation. An individual could come to an abrupt halt when speaking and struggle with how to continue the conversation. This can lead to them repeating themselves and experience having trouble in naming familiar objects.
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Disorientation: they may get confused about the time of day or becoming lost in a familiar place. People living with dementia can become lost on their own street and feel unsure how they got there or how to get back home.
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Difficulties in planning or solving problems: an individual with dementia may get confused more easily, affecting their ability to plan and solve problems. They can also have trouble working with numbers which can hinder completing tasks such as following a familiar recipe or keeping a track of monthly bills.
The Next Steps After a Diagnosis
Receiving a diagnosis for dementia can often come as a shock, but this is a crucial time to unlock the support you need in order to live a comfortable life. If you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed, here are the first steps we recommend:
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Give Yourself Time: if you have been diagnosed, it is perfectly normal to feel a range of emotions and struggle to take everything in. It is important give yourself plenty of time to adjust and understand what a dementia diagnosis means for you and your life. When you feel ready, create a plan for the future while you are still able to make decisions for yourself.
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Identifying Services and Support: research what services and support are available in your area to ensure you are prepared to use these if you ever need them. Local authority services will vary from area to area, but they can include home care services, equipment, and adaptations to your home.
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Prioritise Your Health: it is vital that you continue to look after your physical and mental health when you have dementia. If you are feeling low and down about your diagnosis, you can talk to your GP and be recommended for treatments such as talking therapies which can help improve your wellbeing. Additionally, try and maintain a healthy and balanced diet and continue to exercise, whether that is taking a walk every day or spending time gardening.
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Create Your Life Story: you can start a memory book filled with photographs, notes and keepsakes from your childhood through to the present day. This could be a physical book or a digital version which is a great way to stay connected to your identity and memories as the condition progresses.
HOW SPRINGFIELD CAN HELP
At Springfield Healthcare, we believe in a person-centred approach when it comes to dementia care. Our specialised dementia services enable individuals to live independently, comfortably and safely in their own homes. Our care team are highly trained meaning they can provide support that is tailored to the customer’s needs, allowing them to maintain their independence and live a high quality of life. By working closely with families to develop a bespoke care plan, an individual’s emotional wellbeing is prioritised, and anxiety is reduced.
Alternatively, our care home in Garforth specialises in residential care for individuals living with the early stages of dementia. Our compassionate team offers a wide variety of daily activities that enhance wellbeing and assist residents in living happily, safely and as independently as possible.
If you’re worried about symptoms or need advice on the next steps, our friendly team is here to help.
Reach out to us today to discuss how we can support your family’s journey.
