People in West Sussex struggling with their memory urged to contact GPs despite coronavirus
The NHS has said it is still here if people need it.
People in West Sussex who are struggling with ongoing memory issues are being urged to contact their GP for a memory assessment.
The NHS has said that although it is working hard to deal with coronavirus, it is still here if people need it.
The Dementia Assessment Service is a team of healthcare providers, working with dementia advisors and dementia support workers from the Alzheimer's Society, whose focus is the early assessment, diagnosis and treatment of people suspected of developing a dementia.
There are currently delays in assessments by the Dementia Assessment Service because of the pandemic, but the service is said to be "working hard to contact people as soon as they can".
Bikram Raychaudhuri, clinical lead for dementia at the Sussex NHS Commissioners said:
"We can all experience memory problems from time to time, for example forgetting where you have left your keys or forgetting why you went into a certain room.
"For the most part these are not things to be too concerned about.
"However, if you or someone you know begins to experience regular memory loss and disorientation, or subtle changes in personality over a prolonged period, especially if it is impacting your daily activities such as difficulty in cooking, cleaning or taking medication, then it is a good idea to speak to a GP.
"Family, friends or carers may often recognise these changes before the person affected."
Coronavirus is said to be making daily life "that bit harder" for people living with dementia.
But, the service is reminding people they are not alone and help is available.
There are a range of community services available, including telephone befriending services and doorstep deliveries.
You can find a list of local support services on the West Sussex Connect to Support website.
Initial appointments with the service may be online or by phone because of the pandemic.