In the Care Podcast, Sarah shared honest and practical advice about the emotional impact of a dementia diagnosis and where families can turn for support. To build on that conversation, Sarah has written the following guide. It offers step-by-step advice, checklists, and tips for families adjusting to life after a diagnosis.

Receiving a diagnosis of dementia: what happens next?

When a person receives a diagnosis of dementia, they and the people close to them are likely to experience a wide range of emotions. There is no right or wrong way to feel, and each person and family will process the news differently.

It is not uncommon for a person to feel a sense of shock or denial, especially if the diagnosis was unexpected or they thought the symptoms were due to another condition.  Other common emotions people experience are sadness, frustration, anger and loss - for the life they thought they would live.

It is important to take time to acknowledge your feelings and try to open up to people close to you about your diagnosis. Whilst this can be difficult, it helps family and friends understand what is happening and allows them to offer support.

Practical steps to take after receiving a diagnosis:

It is natural to have lots of questions after being diagnosed with dementia. That’s why Dementia UK has launched a free online series called ‘Dementia: what next?’, which is designed to help people affected by dementia learn more about the condition and the next steps they can take.

Hosted by dementia specialist Admiral Nurses, the sessions share expert information and advice on topics we are frequently asked about, helping families to navigate the future with more confidence.

Dementia UK also has a checklist families can use to help guide them through the practical steps they can take after someone has received a diagnosis. This includes:

1. Asking about follow-up appointments
2. Asking about medication
3. Telling family and friends
4. Arranging a lasting power of attorney
5. Informing the DVLA and vehicle insurance company
6. Informing the employer about the diagnosis
7. Discussing plans and wishes for the future
8. Making a Will
9. Applying for a carer’s assessment
10. Applying for a needs assessment
11. Applying for benefits and financial support
12. Making the home safe and comfortable
13. Looking into local services and support

Tips for supporting someone after they’ve received a diagnosis:

Receiving a diagnosis of dementia can change the way a person thinks about themselves, and the way other people behave towards them. Family and friends may become over-protective and encourage the person to stop driving or give up work for example.

You may feel unsure about how to best support someone close to you after they have received a dementia diagnosis, but taking a thoughtful approach that combines clear communication and empathy can make a world of difference. Try to:

• Support the person to maintain their independence with everyday tasks such as work, family life, socialising and hobbies
• Have open and honest conversations about the future. Whilst this can be challenging, it can help to reduce misunderstandings and enable everyone to move forward knowing that the person’s wishes have been heard
• Focus on the person’s strengths rather than what they can no longer do
• Look into new activities and interests to help keep the person mentally stimulated
• Avoid negative comments or correcting the person if they get something wrong as this can cause them to become upset or withdraw from other people

Adjusting to a dementia diagnosis can be difficult and will take time. It’s important that family and friends still see the person behind the diagnosis and try to find ways to help them live well with dementia.

How to access support:

It is common to feel like your life has been turned upside down after receiving a dementia diagnosis, but it’s important to know that you’re not alone. Dementia specialist Admiral Nurses like me are here to help.

If you need advice or support on any aspect of dementia, you can contact Dementia UK’s Admiral Nurse Dementia Helpline on 0800 888 6678 or email helpline@dementiauk.org.

Dementia UK is also offering free face-to-face clinics with an Admiral Nurse in over 200 Nationwide Building Society branches across the UK. Appointments are available to anyone affected by dementia. To find a clinic near you, visit dementiauk.org/nationwide.