Dementia Oxfordshire marks 10 years 

Round & About

The Dementia Oxfordshire support service is marking its 10-year anniversary 

A diagnosis of dementia can feel overwhelming.  Although trials of new drugs have recently offered hope for the future many people feel lost and overwhelmed when they first receive the news, with no idea of where to turn next. 

Thankfully, Age UK Oxfordshire set up Dementia Oxfordshire ten years ago this month. If you’ve just been diagnosed, you’ll be offered a referral to Dementia Oxfordshire and within two weeks, a friendly dementia adviser will get in touch and stay in contact for as long as you need support. There are 20+ dementia advisers across the county. Each one has an in-depth knowledge of local services and activities that can improve life for people with dementia, their carers, and families. 

During the past decade, the service has grown and adapted. Today, as well as team of dementia advisers, Dementia Oxfordshire has its own Admiral Nurse (specialist dementia nurse) to help in complex cases, specialist Young Onset Dementia Advisers who support people diagnosed before the age of 65, and a dedicated benefits adviser who can help families make sure they have the financial support they need. 

The team also run a programme of online and in-person information sessions, focussing on understanding symptoms and helping carers to develop strategies to cope well. There are Dementia Oxfordshire clinics across the county too, where anyone can drop in to chat to a Dementia Adviser, plus a Support Line that is also open to everyone with questions about dementia. 

Addressing hearing loss, keeping active and staying connected are all known to help minimise the risk of and slow the progression of dementia, so organised groups and activities are a key part of what Dementia Oxfordshire offers, including walking & singing groups! 

To find out more about the services provided by Dementia Oxfordshire, visit dementiaoxfordshire.org.uk or call the support line on 01865 410210. “