Who's who in dementia care
There can be a number of health care professionals involved in diagnosing dementia and managing symptoms once dementia if a diagnosis is confirmed.
Supports in your community
General Practitioner, GP
Your local GP or doctor is a key person when you have been diagnosed with dementia. You can ask your GP about the type of dementia, changes that emerge and how you can manage symptoms. You can also talk to your GP about medication.
It is important go for regular general health checks with your doctor so they can monitor blood pressure, cholesterol and general health.
Public Health Nurse, PHN
A public health nurse works with people in their homes to help them to manage their condition. A public health nurse can help you to access home support services. Contact your
local health office or talk to your GP to make contact with your Public Health Nurse.
Dementia specialists
The following doctors specialise in diagnosing, treating and managing a diagnosis of dementia. Your GP can refer you to one of these specialists.
Geriatrician
A geriatrician is a doctor who specialises in medicine for older persons. In Ireland that means people who are over 65 years old. A geriatrician is often involved in working with people with dementia to help to manage symptoms and talk about medications.
Psychiatrist of Later Life or Psychiatrist of Older Age
A Psychiatrist of Later Life / Psychiatrist of Older Age is a doctor who specialises in the mental health of people over 65. This doctor works with people with dementia who experience depression or who experience symptoms that affect their personality and behaviour. This doctor can help you to manage symptoms and work with you to develop strategies to cope with your diagnosis.
Neurologist
A Neurologist is a doctor who specialises in conditions which affect the brain. Where a person is under 65 and has dementia they will often work with a neurologist who can help them to cope with the diagnosis and manage symptoms as they emerge.
The GP can refer a person to a Psychiatrist of Later Life or a Geriatrician to obtain specialist support during the course of the condition. Where a person is under 65, a neurologist may be the consultant referred to.
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