The Dorset Dementia Pathway   

The Dorset dementia pathway is a co-ordinated system for memory assessment and post-diagnosis support, led by NHS Dorset and partners like Dorset HealthCare, Help & Care, and Age UK, featuring a Memory Assessment Service (MAS) for diagnosis and Dementia Coordinators for ongoing support for patients and carers, available via GP referral or self-referral for those with suspected dementia. It aims to provide timely diagnosis, treatment, and holistic support, including for younger-onset dementia and carers, ensuring people live well with dementia. 

Key Components of the Pathway

• Memory Assessment Service (MAS): For people over 18 with suspected dementia, MAS offers specialist assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and emotional support for carers, using a team of nurses, psychologists, OTs, and psychiatrists.

• Dementia Coordinators (Help & Care): Deliver crucial post-diagnosis support, connecting individuals and families to local Deaservices, information, and resources, including specific support for younger dementia.

• Referral Process: Referrals to MAS are made by GPs or other professionals via specific forms (SystmOne for GPs) or directly through Help & Care for self-referrals, ensuring a smooth transition from suspicion to diagnosis and support. 

How it Works

1. Initial Concern: A person (or family/carer) notices memory problems or other cognitive changes.

2. Referral: A GP refers the individual to the Memory Assessment Service (MAS) or the individual/carer self-refers to Help & Care if they have a confirmed diagnosis or memory concerns.

3. Assessment & Diagnosis (MAS): The MAS team investigates the cause, provides a diagnosis, and can offer initial treatments.

4. Post-Diagnosis Support: Once diagnosed, the MAS refers to Dementia Coordinators (Help & Care) for personalised support, resources, and links to local groups, aiming to maximise independence and prevent crises. 

Who it's For

• Anyone in Dorset (aged 18+) with suspected dementia or a formal diagnosis.

• Family members and carers.

• Includes a specific provision for younger-onset dementia. 

Accessing Support.

• Contact your GP: To start the referral to the Memory Assessment Service (MAS).

• Or contact Help & Care: https://www.helpandcare.org.uk/what-we-offer/memory-support-advice/  For support after diagnosis or for self-referral with memory concerns. “

Why not come along to Wareham Library and have a cup of tea and talk about your concerns about your memory           

Thank you for your support and help in making the Purbeck area Dementia Friendly 

Need to raise another £21.000 for a second Admiral Nurse

 News  

Dementia Friendly Purbeck Stall at the Bere Regis Pop Up Cafe coffee morning, Saturday 25th October, helping us to raise money for the second Admiral Nurse in Purbeck