Dementia

Overview

Dementia is an umbrella term for progressive conditions—such as Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia and Lewy‑body dementia—that damage brain cells and gradually affect memory, thinking, language and everyday independence.

At The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, Aylesbury you can access swift consultant‑led memory testing, on‑site brain imaging, tailored medication plans and one of the region’s most comprehensive cognitive‑rehabilitation programmes, all without NHS waiting lists.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters — Future Health Risks

• Allows timely medication that may slow symptom progression
• Enables driving, financial and care decisions while you can still contribute
• Reduces risk of falls, malnutrition and medication errors
• Flags reversible factors such as vitamin deficiency or thyroid disease
• Offers support to family carers, protecting their mental health

Symptoms You Might Notice

• Short‑term memory lapses, repeating questions or misplacing items
• Difficulty finding words or following conversations
• Losing track of dates, appointments or familiar routes
• Reduced judgment when handling money or household appliances
• Personality or mood changes, anxiety or suspicion
• Hallucinations, disturbed sleep or vivid dreams (more common in Lewy‑body dementia)
• Slow, shuffling walk or small handwriting (possible Parkinsonian features)

Common Causes And Risk Factors

• Increasing age – risk doubles roughly every five years after 65
• Family history of dementia, especially early‑onset Alzheimer’s
• Cardiovascular risk factors: hypertension, diabetes, smoking, high cholesterol
• Previous stroke or significant head injury
• Social isolation, low physical activity or untreated depression
• Heavy alcohol use over many years
• Vitamin B₁₂ or thyroid hormone deficiency (reversible contributors)

When To Seek Medical Advice

Book an assessment on 01296 678 800 if you or a loved one experiences:

• Memory problems lasting longer than six months
• Difficulty managing work, finances or medication
• New confusion, getting lost or unsafe driving incidents
• Personality or behavioural changes distressing to family members

Seek urgent medical attention if confusion develops rapidly with fever, severe headache or weakness—this may indicate delirium or stroke, not dementia.

How We Diagnose And Monitor Dementia

1. Consultant Neurology Review – detailed history, medication check and cognitive screening in our Neurology Department.
2. Standardised Memory Tests – MoCA, ACE‑III or MMSE to measure different thought domains.
3. On‑Site CT Brain – high‑resolution scans in the CT Suite rule out tumours, bleeding or large strokes.
4. MRI Referral To The New Foscote Hospital – seamless transfer for detailed structural and perfusion imaging when needed.
5. Laboratory Screening – full blood count, electrolytes, thyroid function, vitamin B₁₂ and folate.
6. Multidisciplinary Case Meeting – neurologists, psychologists, dietitians and rehabilitation specialists devise your personalised care plan.
7. Structured Follow‑Up – regular clinic reviews and repeat cognitive tests track progression and adjust therapy.

Treatment And Continuing Support

• Medication – acetylcholinesterase inhibitors or memantine when appropriate, plus careful blood‑pressure, cholesterol and diabetes control to protect brain vessels.
• Cognitive Rehabilitation – goal‑based training with occupational therapists to strengthen memory strategies and problem‑solving.
• Speech And Language Therapy – techniques for word‑finding, conversation pacing and safe swallowing.
• Physiotherapy And Falls Prevention – balance exercises and strength programmes within our Rehabilitation Service gym.
• Neuropsychology And Counselling – coping strategies for anxiety, low mood and carer stress.
• Nutritional Guidance – Mediterranean‑style meal plans and vitamin optimisation with the Dietetic Team.
• Assistive Technology – medication reminders, GPS trackers and smart‑home devices to support independence.
• Carer Education – practical workshops on communication, behaviour management and local support resources.

Why Choose The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital?

• Memory‑clinic appointments usually available within one week
• Integrated diagnostics, therapy and family support under one roof
• Consultant‑delivered assessments with no junior‑doctor hand‑offs
• Dedicated neuro‑rehabilitation centre featuring therapy kitchens, gardens and VR cognitive suites
• Smooth links to community dementia services and social‑care teams
• Private ensuite rooms, free parking and easy access from Oxford, Milton Keynes and London

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dementia Inevitable With Age?
No. While risk rises with age, many people never develop dementia. Managing blood pressure, staying active and engaging socially all help protect brain health.

Can Medication Cure Dementia?
Current drugs do not cure dementia but can improve symptoms or slow decline, especially when started early.

How Long Does Assessment Take?
Initial consultation, cognitive testing and CT imaging are usually completed in a single half‑day visit, with MRI arranged promptly if required.

Preserve Memory And Independence

Call 01296 678 800 or enquire online to book your dementia assessment and personalised rehabilitation plan.