Supporting people with dementia

Support to live well with dementia is important. The coronavirus pandemic has added additional challenges for those who live with dementia and the people who care for them.

There is a range of support, activities and information around that can help.

Get online support, advice and practical tips

You can find out where to get help, advice and support on the Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership website.

You can also contact these organisations for online help and support:

  • Alzheimer Scotland – www.alzscot.org

  • Alzheimer’s Society – you can connect with other people, share experiences and get advice and support from peers at the Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Talking Point forum.

Activities

  • Dementia Together – for ideas, hints and tips on activities and things to do at home.

  • Capital Theatres has a programme of online activities called Raise the Curtain, which has many dementia friendly groups and events.

You can find ideas on how to keep fit and active on these NHS websites:

Speak to someone

Use these helplines to speak to someone who can give you advice and support:

  • Call the Alzheimer Scotland helpline. You can call 24 hours a day, 7  days a week. It can give emotional support to people with dementia, their families, friends and professionals as well as help signpost you to where to get more help or information. 0808 808 3000.

  • Call the Edinburgh Carer Support Team. You can call between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday. 0131 536 3371

Planning ahead

Herbert Protocol

If you are worried that someone living with dementia may go missing, you can use the Herbert Protocol.

You can fill out a form with information like where the person grew up, their favourite places, and include a picture of the person which could be shared on social media if ever needed. You then keep the form somewhere safe in the person’s household. If they go missing, the form helps police quickly access vital information to help in the search. To find out more and download the form:

Getting to know me form

If your friend or relative with dementia goes into hospital, or lives in a care home, Alzheimer Scotland’s ‘getting to know me’ form can help. It will give the team caring for your loved one important information about routines, interests, and likes and dislikes.

Power of Attorney

A Power of Attorney helps you plan what you want another person to do for you if you become unable to make decisions because of an accident or illness. That can mean managing your welfare or financial affairs, or both. Find out more on the My Power of Attorney website.