What is this leaflet for?
This is an easy read leaflet about the Sunderland Community Learning Disability Team dementia assessment service.
A member of staff or a carer can support you to read this booklet. They will be able to answer any
questions that you have.
What is dementia?
Dementia is an illness caused by changes to a person’s brain.
Changes to the brain can make it harder to think, remember and do things.
Why have we asked to see you?
As we get older, we might forget things like where we put our bag or glasses, or someone's name. This is normal.
It can be a problem if the following things happen:
You forget or lose things more than before.
You forget the names of people you know well or the words you want to say.
You get lost in places you know well.
You find it hard to focus.
You start to worry more or feel depressed.
Sleeping can become difficult, and you might not rest well.
You have physical changes such as:
- weight loss
- incontinence (wee or poo yourself)
- changes with your mobility
You or your carers may be worried about these changes.
This is why we have been asked to see you.
What can you expect?
We will do some assessments with you.
You might see:
- A nurse
- A speech and language therapist
- An occupational therapist
- A physiotherapist
We will arrange to see you at your home, day service or wherever is best for you.
You may want to have someone with you, like a friend, relative or carer.
We will check your health, what you have been doing, and how you feel.
We will ask you and your carer some questions.
After this, you will get a report.
If we think you might have dementia you will need see a doctor called a psychiatrist.
Problems, complaints or suggestions
Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust has a complaints policy.
If you want to complain we will give you a leaflet to explain how to, or you can talk to a member of staff.
If you think there are things we could do to make our service better please tell a member of the team.
How to contact us
Dementia Assessment Service
Sunderland Community Learning Disability Team
Monkwearmouth Hospital
Newcastle Road
Sunderland
SR5 1NB
Telephone: 0191 566 5630
Further information about the content, reference sources or production of this leaflet can be obtained from the Patient Information Centre. If you would like to tell us what you think about this leaflet please get in touch.
This information can be made available in a range of formats on request (Braille, audio, larger print, BSL or other languages). Please contact the Patient Information Centre on 0191 246 7288.
Published by the Patient Information Centre
2025 Copyright: Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust
Ref: PIC/920/0125 January 2025 V1
Website: www.cntw.nhs.uk
Telephone: 0191 246 7288
Review date 2028
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