A project under our mental health theme focuses on improving the care of Black African and Caribbean people with memory problems, which can be an early warning sign for dementia. We know that Black African and Caribbean elders develop dementia earlier, and seek help later than their white peers.
This delay can greatly impact access to care and support, and reduce the independence of dementia patients prematurely.
We have carried out extensive engagement work within this community – running focus groups and conducting interviews to find out the perceptions and beliefs that prevent people visiting their GP when memory problems first arise.
As well as disseminating our findings we have concentrated all the learning from the project into a new leaflet “Getting help for forgetfulness“.
We co-designed this leaflet with patients and the public and it aims to encourage health-seeking behaviour among elders encountering memory problems.
It answers questions about symptoms, sets out what help is available and why you should visit your GP, and provides useful information and contacts.
We trialled the leaflet in patients without a diagnosis of dementia in several GP practices and they liked it.
We can provide printed copies to the NHS, community and voluntary groups and charities – just contact us with your needs.
Email Moïse Roche to order copies of the leaflet – m.roche@ucl.ac.uk
