What is dementia?

Dementia is a general term for loss of cognitive function that is severe enough to interfere with daily life. It is a syndrome in which there is deterioration in memory, thinking, behaviour and the ability to perform everyday activities. It is not a normal part of aging and is caused by a variety of diseases and injuries that affect the brain, such as Alzheimer's disease or stroke. Symptoms can vary but commonly include memory loss, confusion, difficulty with language and changes in mood or behaviour. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life for those affected.

What are the common symptoms of dementia?

Common symptoms include memory loss, confusion, difficulty with communication, and changes in mood or behaviour. In addition, individuals with dementia may also experience impaired judgment, disorientation, and difficulty with performing everyday tasks. It's important to note that the progression and manifestation of symptoms can vary greatly depending on the type of dementia and the individual. Early detection and proper management are key in providing optimal care for those living with dementia.

Is there a cure for dementia?

Currently, there is no cure for most forms of dementia, but treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Dementia is a progressive condition that affects memory and cognitive function. While there is ongoing research to find a cure, as of now, medical interventions focus on managing the symptoms and supporting individuals living with dementia. Various therapies, medications, and lifestyle changes can help improve quality of life and slow down the progression of the disease. It is important for individuals affected by dementia to work closely with healthcare professionals to develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to their specific needs and condition.

How can I help a loved one with dementia?

Providing a safe and supportive environment, staying patient and understanding, and seeking guidance from healthcare professionals are important ways to support a loved one with dementia. Additionally, maintaining open communication, engaging in activities they enjoy, and being empathetic to their emotions and experiences can significantly help ease their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Remember to take care of your own mental and physical well-being to be able to provide the best care for your loved one with dementia

Many of us will have a relative living with the condition – but this does not mean we will develop it too?

While having a relative with dementia may slightly increase one's risk, it does not guarantee the condition will be inherited. Factors such as aging and lifestyle choices have a significant impact on the likelihood of developing dementia. Therefore, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and regular cognitive stimulation can help reduce the overall risk of developing the condition, despite any genetic predisposition.

Causes of dementia?

There are many diseases that result in dementia. We are listing the most common illnesses below:

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia.  Alzheimer’s disease is caused by an abnormal protein which surrounds brain cells and another protein that damages their internal structure. In time, chemical connections between brain cells are lost and cells begin to die. The reduced connections between brain cells affect day-to-day memory, difficulties in finding the right words, solving problems, making decisions, or perceiving things in three dimensions.

Vascular dementia occurs if the oxygen supply to the brain is reduced because of narrowing or blockage of blood vessels. It causes some brain cells to become damaged or die. The symptoms can occur suddenly (after a large stroke) or they can develop over time as a result of a series of small strokes. The symptoms of vascular dementia vary and may be similar to the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. Many people have difficulties with problem-solving or planning, concentrating, and thinking quickly. They may also experience short periods when they get very confused.

Mixed dementia – describes when someone has more than one type of dementia, and a mixture of the symptoms of those types. It is common for someone to have both Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia.

Dementia with Lewy bodies – this type of dementia is caused by tiny abnormal structures (Lewy bodies) forming inside brain cells. They disrupt the chemistry of the brain and lead to the death of brain cells. Early symptoms can include alertness that varies over the course of the day, hallucinations, and difficulties judging distances. A person’s day-to-day memory is usually affected less than in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. Dementia with Lewy bodies is closely related to Parkinson’s disease and often has some of the same symptoms, including difficulty with movement.

Frontotemporal dementia (including Pick’s disease) – in this type of dementia, the front and side parts of the brain are damaged. Clumps of abnormal proteins form inside brain cells, causing them to die. Initially, changes in personality and behaviour may be the most obvious signs. Depending on which areas of the brain are damaged, the person may have difficulties with fluent speech or forget the meaning of words.

While the symptoms of the above-mentioned dementia types vary in the early stages, in the later stages of an illness the symptoms are becoming quite similar. In the later stages of dementia, the person will need more and more support to carry out everyday tasks.

Many people with dementia live well for years after their diagnosis. There is a lot of information, advice and support available for the person with dementia and their support network (family, friends, carers) can help them live well with dementia.

Who can diagnose dementia?

Dementia will normally be diagnosed by a specialist doctor who could be:

• a psychiatrist – a mental health specialist

• a geriatrician – a doctor who specialises in the physical health of older people

• a neurologist – someone who specialises in diseases of the nervous system

• a GP or specialist nurse may sometimes make the diagnosis, if they have relevant expertise and training

What is the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia?

Alzheimer's disease is a specific type of dementia characterized by memory loss and cognitive decline, and it is the most common cause of dementia. While dementia is a general term used to describe symptoms related to cognitive decline, Alzheimer's disease is a specific disease with its own set of symptoms and progression. Other types of dementia, such as vascular dementia and frontotemporal dementia, have different causes and manifestations.

Can my family doctor/GP diagnose Alzheimer’s disease?

Yes, a family doctor can diagnose Alzheimer's disease through a comprehensive assessment that includes ruling out other possibilities. They may refer you to a specialist or memory clinic for further evaluation if needed. If you don't have a family doctor for diagnosis, you can contact your local Alzheimer Society charity for help finding qualified healthcare providers in your community.

What is young-onset dementia?

There are around 900,000 people in the UK living with dementia, and the likelihood of developing dementia increases significantly with age. When a person develops dementia before the age of 65, this is known as ‘young-onset dementia’. Over 70,800 people in the UK are living with young-onset dementia.

Like all people with dementia, younger people may experience a wide range of symptoms, especially in the early stages of dementia. However, they are likely to need different support from older people.

People whose symptoms started when they were under the age of 65 are often known as ‘younger people with dementia’ or as having young-onset dementia. This is not for a biological reason but is based on the fact that 65 was the usual age of retirement for many people.

How does young onset dementia develop?

The early symptoms of young onset dementia may not be memory loss. Symptoms can differ from one person to another depending on the type of dementia a person has, and which parts of the brain it affects.

Dementias affecting the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain are more common in younger people so it is more likely that the early symptoms may include changes in:

•  personality

• behaviour

• language

• social functioning

• relationships with others

• activities of everyday living

• motivation

• mood e.g. depression, anxiety

• concentration levels

• decision making and problem-solving

• vision and spatial awareness

In addition, the person may not recognise the changes or may be reluctant to accept there is anything wrong when they are otherwise fit and well, and so put off visiting their doctor.

How do I go about getting a diagnosis of young-onset dementia?

If someone is concerned about possible symptoms of young onset dementia, it is important to consult a GP as soon as possible. It is helpful to keep a diary or notes about the symptoms. It is also a good idea for a family member or friend to accompany the person to the appointment so they can say what changes they have noticed. In the initial appointment, the GP should ask the person about their symptoms and any family history of dementia.

What is the progression of young-onset dementia?

Whatever the cause of young-onset dementia, it is a progressive condition, which means it will get worse over time. How quickly this happens will depend on a range of things. Everyone’s experience of dementia is different, but there are some common experiences. Whatever type of dementia a person has, they will gradually need more support and become more dependent on others as their condition progresses.

Evidence suggests that young-onset dementia may progress faster than dementia in older people – however, the rate of progression varies a lot from person to person.

What are the differences between young and late-onset dementia?  

When compared to older people, younger people affected by dementia are more likely to:  

• have a rarer form of dementia affecting behaviour and social functioning. 

• have a familial/inherited form of dementia. 

• experience employment issues. 

• have significant financial commitments such as a mortgage. 

• have younger and more dependent children. 

• have additional caring responsibility for parents.  

• report significantly higher psychological and physical distress.  

What are the common types of dementia in younger people?  

• Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia in younger people, accounting for around a third of younger people with dementia, in comparison to about 60% in the older age group 

• Vascular dementia is the second most common form of dementia in young people. Around 20% of younger people with dementia have vascular dementia 

• Around 12% of younger people with dementia have frontotemporal dementia, compared with just 2% in older people. It most commonly occurs between the ages of 45-65. In about 40% of cases there is a family history of the condition 

• Korsakoff’s syndrome – around 10% of dementias in younger people are caused by a lack of vitamin B1 (thiamine), most commonly associated with alcohol abuse 

• Around 10% of younger people with dementia have dementia with Lewy bodies 

• Around 20% of young people with dementia have a ‘rarer’ form of the condition. Examples include conditions that can lead to dementia including Parkinson’s, Huntington’s disease and Creutzfeld Jakob disease 

• Younger people are more likely to have rarer familial forms of dementia caused by genetic mutations including: familial Alzheimer’s disease, familial frontotemporal dementia and familial vascular dementia 

Navigating Dementia 

I think my loved one is showing symptoms of dementia, what should I do?

If you suspect that you or a loved one may be showing signs of dementia, seeking advice and help promptly is the best thing you can do. We've compiled a list of key charities and the support they provide on our 'Spotting Signs' page here. These are a great starting point before consulting with your GP. 

Our friends over at the Alzheimer’s Society also have a checklist of dementia symptoms to help identify potential early signs, which can help you when entering into discussion with other family members, your GP or our team over here at St Catherine’s & The Manor. 

From here, your GP will carry out their own assessment and may refer you or your loved one to a dementia specialist if necessary. For more information on the next steps, the Alzheimer’s Society has lots of useful resources here. It’s important to remember that everyone’s journey with dementia is different, so symptoms that appear for one person, might manifest differently in another. 

And here at St Catherine’s and The Manor, our specialist team are always on hand to offer advice, answer any questions or simply lend an ear if you need someone to talk to. Simply call us on 0191 694 1052 or pop an email across to us at enquiries@wellburncare.co.uk.

My loved one has received a dementia diagnosis, what should I do next?

After receiving a dementia diagnosis, we understand there are many factors to consider, and navigating the next steps can feel overwhelming.

Dementia UK is a dementia charity that provides a helpful checklist written by their specialist Admiral Nurses, guiding you through the steps of what to do next, who to inform, and your available support options. You can also download a pdf version of the checklist too.

Exploring care options 

Where do we start looking for specialist dementia care for our elderly loved one?

Carehome.co.uk is a good place to start - they’re the leading UK care home review website. Of course, there’s nothing like getting out and visiting homes - each potential resident will have their very specific needs and requirements, so a home that is right for one person, won’t necessarily be right for another. Our enquiry pack also includes our ‘Little guide’ booklet offering tips, advice and a checklist to use when visiting care homes, designed to help you make an informed decision that’s right for you and your loved one.

Is The Manor the only home that caters for young onset dementia in the region?

Yes, unfortunately, The Manor is the only home in our region catering solely to those with young onset dementia. There are only a handful of homes nationwide that offer similar services. This highlights just how important The Manor is in providing the care needed for people living with young onset dementia. While some care homes will accept individuals with young onset dementia, they often don't have the right facilities or activities suited for younger people and therefore can’t provide the necessary age-appropriate care. 

Admissions process 

What types of care do your homes provide?

Both our homes offer specialist dementia care tailored to different needs. St Catherine’s specialises in dementia care for the elderly, while its sister home, The Manor at St Catherine’s, provides specialist dementia care for those living with young onset dementia, with services designed to cater to a younger clientele.

Both of our homes offer various care options including Half-day, Full-day Care, Respite, Permanent Care, and accept emergency admissions (pending pre-assessment).

What facilities are there at The Manor and St Catherine’s?

Spaces inside The Manor include eleven private, state-of-the-art en-suite bedrooms, two fully fitted dementia-designed kitchens, two dining rooms, a multi-functional activities table, two lounges, a cinema lounge and a private garden.

Within our specialist dementia care home, St Catherine’s, residents can enjoy 32 dementia-friendly bedroom suites and various dementia specialists facilities. These include our garden lounge, sensory room, cinema lounge, and a sensory garden for residents to explore.

Do you offer day care?

Yes, we offer day care at both St Catherine’s and the Manor. Our day care package runs from 8.30am to 6pm seven days a week and includes all meals, regular snacks and refreshments. Day care is a great opportunity for your loved one to socialise, participate in a range of engaging activities and also join us on our day trips out and about. 

To discuss our day care package, including prices, please contact our New Care Enquiries team on 0191 694 1052 or pop an email across to us at enquiries@wellburncare.co.uk.

Can I book a visit?

There’s no better way to explore our homes than by paying us a visit. Our specialist teams at both The Manor & St Catherine’s are here to welcome you. Booking a visit is an excellent opportunity to explore our facilities, ask any questions you have about this important next step in yours or your loved ones life, and receive guidance though our admissions process. 

To schedule a visit, simply give our New Care Enquiries Team a call on 0191 694 1052. Alternatively, you can book your visit using the booking link on our website here.

How do I arrange a care assessment?

Once you've reached out to us, whether through social services, a charity, or your GP, we'll carry out a care assessment on you or your loved one. This assessment allows us to fully understand the level of care needed and assess if The Manor or St Catherine’s is suitable to fill those needs. It also helps us tailor our care to individual preferences.

To find out more information or to schedule a care assessment, simply contact our New Care Enquiries Team on 0191 694 1052 or pop an email across to us at enquiries@wellburncare.co.uk. We’re here to assist you every step of the way. 

Understanding costs 

What is the cost of care?

At both St Catherine’s & The Manor, the cost of care is determined by the resident or client's room itself, rather than the level of care needed. We provide all residents/clients with the same high-quality, person-centred care, regardless of their individual needs.

The room rate covers 24-hour personal care, including medication administration, arranging healthcare visits, and regular health reviews. Residents and clients receive 3 meals a day, as well as access to regular drink and snack trolleys, a full laundry service, and a tailored activities and wellbeing programme. Each room is fully furnished with essential amenities such as a bed, bedside table, armchair, wardrobe, and chest of drawers, along with an aid call system for assistance.

The rate also considers contributions towards council tax, utility bills, communal TV licences, phone, and Wi-Fi services. However, personal expenses such as visits to the hairdresser or chiropodist are not included in the rate.

For information on room rates at your preferred home, please contact our New Care Enquiries Team at 0191 694 1052 or email your inquiry directly to enquiries@wellburncare.co.uk.

Day to day life 

What activities are available at St Catherine’s/ The Manor?

At the Manor, we understand how important it is for those living with young onset dementia to continue socialising and maintain a level of independence. Which is why we offer an extensive range of age-appropriate activities, social events and entertainment, taking place both in and out of the home. Our activities include visits to the theatre, trips to the seaside, summer BBQ’s, local community events and more. We actively encourage family members and friends to join in the fun too.

Similarly, we have an extensive recreation programme for our residents at St Catherine's, designed to stimulate both the mind and body.Our Lifestyle Coordinators carefully plan each day, utilising the extensive range of dementia specialist facilities in the home such as our indoor garden experience, sensory room and state of the art cinema room. From entertainers to pet therapy, arts & crafts, and day trips, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

To see more of the activities we get up to here at St Catherine’s and The Manor, head over to the ‘Life’ blog section on our website here. 

What meals are provided for clients/ residents?

We offer a variety of meals tailored to our clients and residents' preferences and dietary needs, whether it's their favourite dishes or special dietary requirements. We also provide regular meals, tea, coffee, and snacks from our tea trolley which are served and available 24 hours a day.

We partner with Apetito, a trusted food supplier, to ensure our residents and clients receive nutritious and delicious meals. Apetito offers a finger foods range specifically designed for people with dementia who might struggle with cutlery. These complete meals can be easily picked up and eaten with little mess, meaning those living with dementia have the freedom to enjoy meal times independently and with dignity.

Staying up to date

How do you keep loved ones informed about what’s happening in the home?

We make sure all family members and loved ones are kept up to date through various channels of communication. Our regular newsletters which include important key dates for the upcoming month, our award-winning company magazine, the Wellburn Post, and highlights from our 'Life' blog on our website. 

We also have a dedicated Facebook page for both The Manor & St Catherine's, where families can see what their loved ones get up to and get a glimpse into day-to-day life across our homes.  During family visits, we also make sure to conduct regular check-ups to provide updates on their loved one's well-being.

We actively encourage family members to join in activities too, whether it's day trips, social events, or summer BBQs in the garden. They’re not just visitors - we consider them part of our family and the journey too.

Staff training and expertise 

How are your staff trained to handle the unique needs of those living with dementia?

Every team member at both St Catherine’s and the Manor is carefully chosen for their qualities of reliability, integrity, skill, friendliness, and professionalism. In addition to this, all our staff undergo further dementia training facilitated by our in-house trainer and representatives from Dementia Forward, a prominent local charity specialising in dementia care.

Dementia Forward provides advanced education and awareness sessions to fully understand the inner workings and unique needs of those affected by dementia, allowing our staff to truly be specialists in the field.

This ensures that our staff are well-equipped to provide the highest quality, person-centred care for individuals living with dementia, enabling them to lead happy and fulfilling lives.