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Dementia

Dementia is a condition that affects the brain, making it harder for a person to remember things, think clearly, and do everyday tasks.

It is not a normal part of ageing, but it is more common in older people.

What Causes Dementia?

Dementia happens when brain cells are damaged. This damage affects how the brain processes information, leading to memory loss and changes in behaviour. There are different reasons why this happens, including age, genetics, and lifestyle factors like smoking, lack of exercise, or high blood pressure.

Signs of Dementia

Dementia affects people in different ways, but common signs include:

  • Memory loss, especially forgetting recent events.

  • Confusion and difficulty making decisions.

  • Trouble speaking or understanding language.

  • Changes in mood, such as feeling anxious, sad, or easily irritated.

  • Difficulty completing everyday tasks, like cooking or managing money.

  • Seeing things that are not there (hallucinations) or believing things that are not true (delusions).

Types of Dementia

There are different types of dementia, including:

  • The most common type of dementia. It starts with mild memory loss and gradually affects thinking, speaking, and even recognising loved ones.

  • Caused by problems with blood flow to the brain, often after a stroke. Symptoms include difficulty planning, memory problems, and mood changes.

  • This type includes symptoms like memory loss, visual hallucinations, and difficulty controlling movement (similar to Parkinson’s disease).

  • Affects personality and behaviour before memory problems appear. People may become impulsive, lose interest in others, or have trouble speaking.

Getting a Diagnosis

A doctor may do tests to check memory, thinking skills, and overall health. This might include:

  • Memory and thinking tests

  • Blood tests

  • Brain scans

A correct diagnosis can help people get the right support and treatment.

How to Support Someone with Dementia

  • Keep things simple – Use clear, short sentences and avoid sudden changes in routine.

  • Create a safe and familiar space – Remove clutter, reduce noise, and add signs to help with navigation.

  • Encourage social activities – Spending time with family, listening to music, or doing gentle exercise can help improve mood.

Support for Caregivers

  • Caring for someone with dementia can be difficult and stressful. It’s important for caregivers to take care of their own wellbeing too. Here are some practical ways to help reduce stress and maintain good health:

  • Seek Practical Support: Find help with day-to-day care, such as arranging for respite care, where someone else looks after your loved one for a while.

  • Get Professional Advice: When making important decisions for your loved one, like writing a will, setting up power of attorney, or cancelling a driving licence, seek advice from professionals.

  • Look After Your Emotional Health: Caring for someone can bring up many emotions. Get help to cope with changes in your loved one’s health and seek support if you feel depressed or anxious.

  • Join a Support Group: Connecting with other caregivers can help improve mental health, reduce feelings of stress, and offer a sense of community.

Seeking Help

If you or someone you know is struggling with dementia or any mental health concerns, it’s important to seek help. With the right treatment and support, individuals can manage their symptoms and live fulfilling lives. Don’t hesitate to reach out to mental health professionals, your GP, or our organisation for more information and assistance.

We are here to support the Tamil community in openly discussing mental health and providing the tools needed to support each other.

Remember, you are not alone.
Share this resource with your friends and family and help raise awareness about mental health in the Tamil community. Together, we can create a space where everyone feels comfortable talking about mental health.