Dementia

Overview

Dementia describes a group of progressive brain conditions—most commonly Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, and Lewy body dementia—that impair memory, thinking, language, and day‑to‑day independence.

At The New Foscote Hospital, Banbury you receive swift consultant‑led memory assessment, same‑day MRI or CT scanning, tailored medication, and goal‑based cognitive rehabilitation, all delivered in one modern, private setting.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters — Future Health Risks

• Slows decline with timely medication and lifestyle changes
• Allows legal, financial, and driving decisions while capacity is intact
• Lowers fall, fracture, and malnutrition rates through early therapy
• Identifies reversible factors such as vitamin deficiency or thyroid disease
• Supports family carers and reduces their stress and burnout

Symptoms You Might Notice

• Short‑term memory lapses or repeating questions
• Losing track of dates, appointments, or familiar routes
• Struggling to find words or follow conversations
• Reduced judgment with money, cooking, or appliances
• Personality or mood changes, anxiety, or suspicion
• Vivid dreams, hallucinations, or disturbed sleep (often Lewy body dementia)
• Shuffling walk, small handwriting, or tremor in some types

Common Causes And Risk Factors

• Ageing: risk doubles roughly every five years after sixty‑five
• Family history of early‑onset or familial Alzheimer’s disease
• Cardiovascular risks: hypertension, diabetes, smoking, high cholesterol
• Prior stroke, serious head injury, or chronic alcohol use
• Social isolation, physical inactivity, and untreated depression
• Low vitamin B₁₂ or thyroid hormone levels (reversible contributors)

When To Seek Medical Advice

Call 01295 252 281 for an urgent appointment if you or a loved one notices six months of worsening memory, confusion during familiar tasks, unsafe driving incidents, or troubling behavioural changes.

Seek emergency help via 999 if confusion starts suddenly with headache, weakness, or fever—this could be delirium or stroke, not dementia.

How We Diagnose And Monitor Dementia

1. Consultant Neurology Assessment – detailed history, medication review, and bedside cognitive screening in our Neurology Service.
2. Structured Memory Tests – MoCA or ACE‑III to measure attention, language, and executive skills.
3. On‑Site MRI Scanning – high‑resolution images in our Imaging Centre detect strokes, tumours, or hippocampal changes.
4. Laboratory Screening – full blood count, electrolytes, thyroid function, vitamin B₁₂, and folate to exclude reversible causes.
5. Multidisciplinary Review – neurologists, psychologists, dietitians, and physiotherapists meet weekly to tailor your care plan.
6. Regular Follow‑Up – repeat cognitive tests and imaging track progression and fine‑tune therapy every six to twelve months.

Treatment And Continuing Support

• Medication – acetylcholinesterase inhibitors or memantine when indicated, plus tight blood‑pressure, cholesterol, and glucose control to protect brain vessels.
• Cognitive Rehabilitation – occupational‑therapy sessions targeting memory strategies, calendars, and way‑finding cues.
• Speech And Language Therapy – techniques for word‑finding, conversation pacing, and safe swallowing.
• Physiotherapy And Falls Prevention – balance and strength programmes in our Physiotherapy Department.
• Neuropsychology And Counselling – coping strategies for anxiety, mood change, and carer resilience.
• Nutrition Advice – Mediterranean‑style menus and vitamin optimisation with the Dietetic Team.
• Assistive Technology – medication reminders, smart‑home sensors, and GPS trackers to prolong independence.
• Carer Education – practical workshops on communication, behaviour management, and local support groups.

Why Choose The New Foscote Hospital

• Memory‑clinic appointments typically available within one week
• On‑site MRI, CT, and laboratory testing for rapid answers
• Consultant‑delivered care with no junior‑doctor hand‑offs
• Purpose‑built therapy gym, garden, and quiet rooms for cognitive rehabilitation
• Easy links from Oxford, Warwick, Northampton, and the Cotswolds with free parking and ensuite rooms

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Dementia Be Reversed?
Most dementias are progressive, but early treatment and risk‑factor control can slow decline. Reversible mimics—such as low vitamin B₁₂ or thyroid problems—improve once corrected.

How Long Does Assessment Take?
Initial consultation, cognitive testing, and same‑day CT or MRI usually fit into a single morning or afternoon visit.

Will Medication Cure Dementia?
Current drugs do not cure dementia but can ease symptoms and prolong independence, especially when started early.