19 December 2017

There are currently over 90,000 people in Scotland living with a diagnosis of dementia, a number that is expected to double within a generation as life expectancy increases. Of this number, over 2,200 live in the Scottish Borders, with almost 100 being under the age of 65.

As the number of people living with dementia increases, the lives of more and more people are being touched by the difficulties of living with this very challenging condition - whether as a patient, carer, family member or friend.

We work hard to ensure that our dementia services fit the needs of the people of the Borders, with over 80% of our staff from clinical and non-clinical areas having an informed level of dementia knowledge following training.

We continue to encourage early diagnosis, working with our primary care colleagues to promote the benefits of early diagnosis.

We also provide post diagnostic support for patients and their families, support includes:

  • help to plan for the future
  • understanding of diagnosis
  • general health
  • help to keep patients involved in their community
  • peer support

Peter Lerpiniere, Associate Director of Nursing for Mental Health, Learning Disability & Older People at NHS Borders, said: "Nobody should face dementia alone. Having conversations about dementia; with partners, with family and friends, or with medical professionals can make a huge difference to someone’s future quality of life.

"For patients, their families, and carers, understanding more about dementia enables them to make informed choices to live well with dementia."