article_snippet.sent: To confirm a diagnosis of dementia or to access specialist services, a GP can refer a patient to a memory clinic.
article_snippet.sent: Normally, these are based either at a community clinic or at a hospital.
article_snippet.sent: these will have a team of psychologist nurses and doctors.
article_snippet.sent: As well as running tests that can help provide a diagnosis, these co-ordinate a range of services to help the dementia patient.
article_snippet.sent: For example, all clinics will offer cognitive stimulation therapy.
article_snippet.sent: Each session lasts for about 45 minutes.
article_snippet.sent: You cannot simply attend a clinic - you need to be referred.
article_snippet.sent: Typically, there is a four-to-six week wait after referral for an appointment.
article_snippet.sent: If the patient is too infirm or incapacitated to attend, most clinics can offer a home assessment by one of the community mental health team.
article_snippet.sent: Dr Souter is a retired GP and fellow of the Royal College of General Practitioners.
highlights_snippet.sent: Have a list of the numbers of key people by the phone - your GP and other care professionals, carers, family and reliable friends.
  