What is dementia?
Dementia is a decline in mental ability. This affects memory, thinking, problem solving, concentration and perception. Dementia occurs as a result of the death of brain cells or damage in parts of the brain. These are areas of the brain that deal with the way a person is able to think.
Signs of dementia
The following signs could be the early symptoms of dementia. See your GP if you worry about any changes in yourself, or another person in relation to:
- Memory (specifically memory loss) – struggling to remember recent events. Recalling things that happened in the past is much easer
- General mental ability – having problems thinking or reasoning
- Carrying out daily tasks – struggling to follow conversations or TV programmes
- Personality changes – feeling anxious, depressed or angry about memory loss
- Behaviour changes – repeating things or losing the thread of a conversation
Dementia is not a natural part of ageing. It’s important to speak to your GP sooner rather than later if you are concerned about memory problems or other symptoms
Guide to a healthier lifestyle
These easy to follow tips can help reduce your risk of dementia:

Don’t forget to look after your vision and hearing to help you stay socially connected
Local help, advice and support
- Dudley Dementia Gateways – offer information and guidance. This is for anyone who has concerns that they or a family member have dementia.
- Dudley Self-Management Programme offers a course specifically for adults who care for people with a long term health condition, called “caring for me and you”.
- Search on the Dudley Community Information Directory to find your local support group.
More information: