Practical things to consider after diagnosis

Driving can be an important part of maintaining your independence. A dementia diagnosis does not automatically mean you have to stop driving, but it is important to make sure you can continue to drive safely.

What you need to do

If you have been diagnosed with dementia, you must tell the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). You should also inform your motor insurance provider.

You can find out how to notify the DVLA and what happens next on the GOV.UK dementia and driving page.

If you are concerned about your ability to drive safely, speak to your doctor or specialist. They can advise you about driving assessments.

Alternatives to driving

If you are no longer able to drive, there are other ways to stay independent and continue doing the things you enjoy.

These might include public transport, taxis, community transport services or getting support from family and friends.

You may also be eligible for help with travel:

• Blue Badge scheme – check whether you qualify for help with parking.

• Disabled person's bus pass – find out about eligibility and how to apply.

• Disabled Persons Railcard – check eligibility for discounted rail travel.

• Senior Railcard – information about discounted rail travel for older people.

A diagnosis of young onset dementia may affect your working life. You may want to continue working, change your working arrangements or consider stopping work.

The right decision will depend on your circumstances, the type of work you do and how dementia affects you.

Support at work

You may be able to continue working with adjustments to your role or working environment. These could include flexible working hours, changes to your responsibilities or equipment to help with everyday tasks.

Your employer has a legal responsibility to consider reasonable adjustments if you have a disability.

You can find out more about your rights and the support available on GOV.UK – Disability rights and employment.

Meaningful activities

If you decide to stop working, it is still important to have opportunities to take part in activities that are meaningful to you.

These might include volunteering, hobbies, social activities or learning new skills.

An occupational therapist can help you identify activities that match your interests, abilities and goals.

Assistive technology includes equipment and devices that can help you manage everyday activities and maintain your independence.

It can help with remembering appointments, taking medication, finding misplaced items and staying safe at home.

Examples include:

• Reminder alarms and calendar clocks

• Devices to help find misplaced items, such as keys

• Smartphone apps for reminders and organising daily activities

• Personal alarms and home safety equipment

Your occupational therapist can help you explore which options might be useful for you.

You can also visit Living Made Easy for information about equipment and technology that can support independent living.

Your local council may also be able to advise you about equipment and support available in your area.

Getting your financial and personal affairs organised can help make everyday life easier.

You might find it useful to:

• Set up direct debits or standing orders for regular bills

• Keep important documents together in a safe place

• Make a list of important contacts

• Organise information about your bank accounts, insurance, pension and household bills

• Share important information with someone you trust, if you feel comfortable doing so

Financial and legal advice

A dementia diagnosis may affect your finances, particularly if you need to reduce your working hours or stop working.

You can find information and guidance from:

• Dementia UK

• Citizens Advice

• Pathways Through Dementia

Benefits and financial support

You or someone who cares for you may be entitled to financial support.

The benefits available will depend on your circumstances, including your health, income and care needs.

You can use the GOV.UK benefits calculators to find out what financial support you may be entitled to.

You can also contact Citizens Advice for help understanding your options.

Planning ahead can help you make decisions about your future and ensure your wishes are understood.

You may want to involve someone you trust, such as a family member or friend. You may also find it helpful to seek independent legal advice.

Lasting power of attorney

A lasting power of attorney (LPA) is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone you trust to help make decisions or make decisions on your behalf.

There are two types:

• Property and financial affairs – covers decisions about money, bills, property and other financial matters.

• Health and welfare – covers decisions about your care, medical treatment and daily life.

You must have the mental capacity to make an LPA when you set it up. The rules about when someone can act on your behalf depend on the type of LPA.

Find out more about making a lasting power of attorney on GOV.UK.

Making a will

Making a will allows you to decide what happens to your money, property and possessions after your death.

If you already have a will, you may want to review it to make sure it still reflects your wishes.

You can find information about making or updating a will on GOV.UK.

Trusts

A trust is a legal arrangement that allows assets, such as money or property, to be managed for someone's benefit.

There are different types of trusts, and the rules can be complicated. If you are considering setting up a trust, it is important to get advice from a qualified legal professional.

If you need help with everyday activities, you can ask your local council for a care and support needs assessment.

The assessment looks at your needs and identifies what support may help you maintain your independence and wellbeing.

Assessments are free, although you may need to contribute towards the cost of any care or support you receive.

You can contact your local council to request an assessment.

If you live in Surrey, you can find out more through Surrey County Council's adult social care service.

You can also read the NHS guide to care needs assessments.

There are practical steps you can take to help make your home safer and support your independence.

An occupational therapist can help you identify any difficulties you may be experiencing at home and suggest changes or equipment that could help.

Personal and online safety

You may find it helpful to:

• Check the identity of visitors before letting them into your home

• Keep a record of expected appointments and visitors

• Use secure passwords and take care when sharing personal information online

• Speak to someone you trust if you receive unexpected calls or messages asking for money or personal details

Preventing falls

Making small changes around your home can help reduce the risk of falls.

These might include:

• Keeping walkways clear of clutter and trailing cables

• Making sure rooms, hallways and stairs are well lit

• Removing or securing loose rugs and mats

• Wearing comfortable, well-fitting footwear

• Using appropriate equipment or mobility aids if needed

If you have fallen, feel unsteady or are worried about falling, speak to your GP or healthcare professional.

You can also read the NHS advice on preventing falls.

Making your home safer

You may find it helpful to:

• Keep frequently used items within easy reach

• Consider grab rails or other equipment where needed

• Keep stairs and entrances free from obstacles

• Use reminders or assistive technology to help with everyday activities

An occupational therapist can advise you about changes that may make your home safer and easier to manage.

What to do if someone falls

If someone has fallen, check whether they are hurt and whether they can get up safely.

Do not try to lift someone if you are unsure whether it is safe to do so.

If someone is seriously injured or needs emergency medical help, call 999.

For further advice, visit the NHS falls information page.

Fire safety

Working smoke alarms and a clear escape plan are important for keeping your home safe.

You should:

• Make sure you have working smoke alarms

• Keep exits and escape routes clear

• Check that electrical appliances are in good condition

• Have a plan for leaving your home safely in an emergency

If there is a fire, leave the building, stay outside and call 999.

For more information, visit the GOV.UK fire safety in the home guidance.