Service details

Bringing someone with you

You will need to bring a relative or close friend to your assessment.  With your consent, we will speak with them to gain additional insight into the difficulties you've been experiencing. Their input can help us develop a clearer understanding of your situation and ensure you receive the most appropriate support.  However, if you are unable to bring anyone with you, we will make adjustments to your assessment.

What else to bring

Please also bring a list of any medications you are currently taking. If you use reading glasses or a hearing aid, please also bring these as well.

If you are currently driving and have reported memory or thinking difficulties that may affect your driving, we will provide guidance at your appointment. If you receive a diagnosis of a cognitive condition such as dementia, it is your legal responsibility to inform the DVLA, as such conditions can affect driving safety over time.

On the day

During your visit to the Devon Dementia Assessment Clinic, you will see:

• An assistant psychologist who will undertake an assessment of your memory and other areas such as language and concentration.
• A support worker who, with your consent, will talk to your relative or friend while you are with the assistant psychologist. They will ask questions about you and the problems you have been experiencing.
• A doctor or non-medical prescriber who will discuss your overall results, the outcome of your assessment and medication if indicated.

On very rare occasions, we may have to implement changes to the operational side of the clinic, sometimes at short notice. This may result in you not seeing a doctor on the same day.

After your assessment

Following your assessment, we will discuss the outcome with you. In some cases, we may be able to provide the results and diagnosis on the day of your appointment. Some people may require further investigations or additional information before an outcome can be confirmed.

We will write to your GP (unless you ask us not to) and send you a copy of the letter. This will explain the outcome of your assessment, any diagnosis given, and any recommendations for support, treatment or further investigation.

If we identify difficulties that would benefit from further support, we will discuss the options available and any referrals that may be helpful.

What if I am diagnosed with Dementia?

If you receive a diagnosis of dementia, we will explain what this means and answer any questions you may have. We will provide information about your diagnosis and discuss any treatments, support or services that may be available.

You will be offered a follow-up appointment with a Dementia Support Worker from your local community mental health team. This appointment usually takes place within four weeks of diagnosis and provides an opportunity to discuss your diagnosis, understand the support available, and explore what matters most to you and those close to you.

We can also provide information about local support groups, community organisations and other services that may help you to live well with dementia.

Devon Carer Support is available for advice and practical help for unpaid carers. Visit Caring in Devon or call 03456 434 435.