Dementia Action Week: Spotting signs of dementia early

21 May 25

This week is Dementia Action Week, highlighting the importance of spotting and diagnosing dementia early. If you are worried about yourself or a loved one, we encourage you to reach out so you can receive care and support as soon as possible.

Several hands hold a cutout of a human head containing a heart and a heartbeat line, symbolising health and care. The background is light blue. Text on the left reads: 'Dementia Action Week' and 'Spotting signs of dementia early.'

The term dementia describes a set of symptoms including memory loss, mood changes, and problems with communication and reasoning. Although it is more common in people over the age of 65, it can also be diagnosed in people under the age of 65 – this is known as Young Onset Dementia (YOD).

At HPFT, we offer an Early Memory Diagnosis and Support Service (EMDASS) for people living in Hertfordshire that your GP can refer you into if they feel it is needed – the aim of our service is to enable people with dementia and their carers to live well.

We have a dedicated team of experts such as psychiatrists, nurses, psychologists and occupational therapists, who can offer you a diagnosis and provide psychological and practical support for both you and your carer.

We also work in close partnership with organisations such as Hertfordshire County Council, Hertfordshire Health and Wellbeing Board and voluntary organisations such as the Alzheimer’s Society as part of the Hertfordshire Dementia Strategy. We want to ensure that people with dementia receive early access to diagnosis and have equitable access to health and care services to support them.

If you are worried about your memory, or think you may have dementia, it's a good idea to see your GP. If you are worried about someone else's memory, encourage them to make an appointment with their GP and perhaps suggest that you go with them.

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Dementia Action Week: Spotting signs of dementia early