There are an estimated 90,000 people with dementia in Scotland with around 3,000 under the age of 65. This Dementia Awareness Week, we are shining a light on some of our staff who support and care for those that are diagnosed with dementia, while also taking the opportunity to inform and educate people about dementia.
Dementia is an umbrella term for over 100 different types of diseases and symptoms. What all the diseases have in common is that they damage brain cells making it harder to remember things or think as clearly as before.
Siobhann Keay is an Alzheimer’s Scotland Dementia Nurse Consultant funded by Alzheimer’s Scotland, the Scottish Government and NHS Lothian. She explains, “I see my main role as being an advocate for people living with dementia and their carers. I seek to ensure that when people are accessing our services, they will receive high quality, person-centred care.
“My role is very varied from nursing leadership, strategic direction and expert consultancy on all aspects of care and treatment of people with dementia across the patient pathway throughout NHS Lothian. I also have a key responsibility in supporting and implementing dementia training. I am very fortunate that I get to work with a wide variety of professionals across our acute and community services as well as third sector partners”
Caring for patients with dementia can bring many challenges. Siobhann shares with us what motivates her on a daily basis. She said, “I have a passion and determination to ensure people living with dementia across NHS Lothian are being well cared for and supported in the way everyone deserves to be.
“There is still a lot of stigma and misconceptions associated with dementia. I strive to challenge that every day. I want to inform and educate health professionals and society to see beyond someone’s dementia diagnosis. To recognise the importance of ensuring that even when someone may not be able to easily communicate what is important to them, we should be still providing person-centred care in a way which is important to that individual.
“I have had the opportunity throughout my career of working with people through all different stages of their dementia journey; from providing post diagnostic support right through to end of life care. I have had the opportunity to laugh and cry with my patients and their carers. To have those experiences and be able to have a small impact on people’s lives often at one of their darkest times is a real privilege.”
Getting a diagnosis of dementia can be devastating for someone and their family – but life isn’t over. Siobhan explains the support that is in place, “The Scottish Government has guaranteed that every person diagnosed with dementia will receive post diagnostic support for a year. I would encourage everyone to take this opportunity at a time which they feel able to get the most out of it.
“Post diagnostic support is planned and delivered at a pace, order and time which reflects the needs and strengths of each individual. Receiving a dementia diagnosis can cause a mixture of negative emotions. It is important that people know that with the right care, information and support many people can and do live well with dementia.”
Support is available if you are worried about yourself or a loved one with dementia “Alzheimer’s Scotland have a 24 hour helpline, which I encourage anyone to utilise, it can be contacted for information, signposting and emotional support by people living with dementia, their friends and family and professionals. The number is 0808 808 3000.”
Many people worry about their memory, particularly as they get older and become more concerned that forgetfulness could be a sign of something like dementia.
Confusion or forgetfulness does not mean someone has dementia; nor is dementia an inevitable part of growing older. If you are worried about your memory, book an appointment to see your doctor.
A range of information including care and support resources is available on NHS Inform –https://www.nhsinform.scot/
