Newly Diagnosed

If you have just been diagnosed with dementia, you may feel numb, scared, and find it difficult to take everything in. In this section we will provide you with advice from members of Dementia NI.

Give yourself time to adjust to what a dementia diagnosis means for you.

You may find it helpful to talk to a professional at your local memory clinic. All five of the Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) in Northern Ireland have a dementia navigator service to help. Their role is to provide information and support – this can be face to face or over the telephone. A Dementia Navigator can direct you to other services which support people living with dementia to live fulfilling lives.

If you can, share your feelings about the dementia diagnosis with family and friends.

When you feel ready, create an action plan while you are still able to make clear decisions for yourself.

Dementia NI has established Empowerment Groups throughout Northern Ireland which provide a place for members, who all have a diagnosis of dementia, to come together, reflect, share experiences, provide peer support, and consult with other organisations and professionals.

Find out more about our Empowerment Groups here.