After a diagnosis

It’s totally normal to feel a wide range of emotions after being diagnosed with dementia mate wareware.

Happy couple sitting together and smiling

You might feel shock, sadness, frustration, relief, embarrassment, anger and loss. Living with dementia mate wareware is a big adjustment.

Here are some ways to look after yourself:

  • Don’t deny your feelings: whatever they are, allow yourself to feel the way you’re feeling – good or bad.
  • Share your feelings: talk to trusted whānau member, or a friend.
  • It’s okay to cry: it’s true what they say – tears can make you feel better.
  • It’s okay to laugh: laughing releases ‘feel-good’ chemicals in your body.
  • Write it down: some people find it helps to record their feelings and experiences.
  • Try something new: whatever it is, finding a new activity you enjoy will make you feel better – and it will stimulate your brain.
  • Get out and enjoy life: do something you enjoy and focus on how good that makes you feel.
  • Let it go: if you are finding it hard to remember something, don’t stress about it – focus on something else.
  • Be patient and kind to yourself: remember, no one asks for dementia mate wareware to happen to them.

Sharing news of the diagnosis

Your stories Philippa’s story thumbnail image

“Dad was determined that having found his creative spirit, he wasn’t about to let it go! He joined a Cognitive Stimulation Therapy course and has just published a book of poetry, How Art! which includes a section on ‘New Beginnings’, about his journey with Alzheimer’s. Dad is living proof that a rich and creative life is possible, even with dementia.”

Philippa’s story

Read Philippa's story

Telling your whānau and friends about your diagnosis of dementia mate wareware may be difficult but they can’t give you the support you need unless you tell them what is going on. Like you, they may have noticed something hasn’t been right with you and a diagnosis can help your whānau and friends come to terms with what has been happening.

Of course it’s up to you who you tell, and when and how you tell them. However, you will need the help of others as your condition progresses so, in general, sharing the news sooner rather than later is best.

Here are some things to think about when considering how you share your diagnosis:

  • Who do I tell?
  • How and when should I raise it?
  • How will people respond to me after I tell them?
  • Will telling the person help me to cope with the diagnosis?

The answers to these questions will be personal to you, and it can be very hard to predict how people will react. Help is available – ask your GP or primary health care professional or your local Alzheimers organisation for guidance.

Remember, there are support groups available in your local community, where you can share your experiences and learn from others facing similar challenges.

Planning ahead

As well as dealing with the immediate impact of your diagnosis, it’s also important to start planning for the future. See planning ahead for more information.

Tips and advice on living well with a dementia mate wareware diagnosis are available here.

Dementia Alliance International

Dementia Alliance International (DAI) is a registered non-profit organisation whose membership is exclusively for people with a medically confirmed diagnosis of any type of a dementia mate wareware from all around the world.

DAI is a global group, of, by and for people with dementia mate wareware, advocating for the voice and needs of people with dementia mate wareware.

DAI host monthly webinars, which cover a variety of topics, and provide an opportunity for people with dementia mate wareware to connect with the wider community of those living with the disease or working in the area of dementia mate wareware, and vice versa.  To participate, you need only an internet connection, while a webcam and microphone will ensure a fuller experience.

  • Booklets and factsheets Thumbnail Image

    Booklets and factsheets

    Our booklets cover many questions that people with dementia mate wareware, their whānau and friends may have. Knowing what to expect can help everyone prepare for what is coming, and knowing about what support and services are available is key to living well with dementia mate wareware.