What is the first treatment for dementia?

Dementia describes ongoing changes in memory, reasoning, language or daily function, and it has different causes and types. A clinician gathers the person's history, asks about changes at home, reviews medicines and checks physical and mental health. Some problems, such as poor sleep, mood symptoms, medication effects or illness, can worsen thinking and may need separate treatment. The assessment helps distinguish these issues and identify the appropriate next step.

Arrange a GP Consultation when memory or thinking changes interfere with familiar tasks, conversations, work or safety. Bring a trusted person who can describe changes over time, a medicine list and examples of missed appointments or difficulties. A Mental Health Assessment may help when low mood, anxiety or distress affects concentration. Treatment can include practical routines, support for carers, management of health conditions and medicine when suitable for the diagnosed type. Do not stop prescribed medicine without advice.

Sudden confusion, new weakness, facial drooping, trouble speaking, a severe headache, collapse or a rapidly worsening change needs emergency assessment rather than a routine memory appointment. These signs can reflect an acute illness or stroke. Seek urgent help as well if confusion follows a fall, fever or a new medicine.

Ask what changes were found, which reversible contributors were checked, whether further testing or specialist review is needed, and what support is available at home. Ask how to make the environment safer, who should coordinate follow-up and which symptoms require urgent help.