Dementia advisers support 75 people every month

A dedicated team of dementia advisers are supporting 75 people with the condition every month to live as independently as their health allows.

The role of the specialist advisers is summed up in their name – Dementia Navigators. They work with individuals, their carers and families to navigate the system and get help or access to local services.

They provide everything from information on local services to emotional support, helping people at any stage of the condition. The service is provided by the Alzheimer’s Society on behalf of Surrey County Council and the local NHS.

With rising numbers of older people in Surrey being diagnosed with dementia, the team supports people to live independently in their homes for as long as possible.

Individuals or families can refer themselves to the service. Many are also referred via health services. There are navigators in each of Surrey’s 11 districts and boroughs. Some of the county’s navigators are pictured.

Sinead Mooney, Surrey County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Public Health, said: “Dementia is different for everyone and this excellent service gives people support which is tailored to their needs, enabling them to stay independent for longer in the familiar surroundings of their own home.

“The information and support the navigators offer helps people gain control after a dementia diagnosis and plan for the future, making the most of all the support available in their local communities.”

For more information about the service or to receive support from a Dementia Navigator, visit Surrey Information Point, call 01932 855582 or email surrey@alzheimers.org.uk.