Support
Alzheimer's disease
In this section:
Alzheimer’s has a huge impact on someone’s life, as well as on their family and carers. There is practical and emotional support available to help everyone affected.
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Care assessments for Alzheimer's disease
Local authorities provide some practical support services and should arrange an assessment of care needs following a diagnosis.
The type of services available may vary depending on where you live, but can include home, day, and respite care.
Access to specialist healthcare can be arranged through your doctor if needed.
Legal and financial support
You may need to think about legal and financial matters and seek advice on the best approach for you. If you wish, you can arrange for a loved one to make financial, legal and health decisions on your behalf, this is called Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA).
Driving after a diagnosis of Alzheimer's
If you drive and are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s you must notify the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) and your insurance company.
You may not have to stop driving straight away, and you can discuss this further with your doctor.
Support services
Many organisations provide information, support and care services to people affected by dementia, as well as families and carers. For more information see here:
There are also organisations that offer support specifically to those with young onset or genetically inherited forms of Alzheimer’s.
The FAD support group is for families affected by inherited Familial Alzheimer’s Disease (FAD). The group is run by Rare Dementia Support, and offers information, advice and social opportunities for people with familial Alzheimer’s disease and their families.
Dementia UK provides information, advice and support for people under 65 diagnosed with dementia, their family and friends.
Getting the right support and advice is so important. My wife's symptoms have been eased by singing in choirs and other groups, as well as attending a support group. We have also enjoyed well organised, dementia-friendly holidays.
- Michael, whose wife Susan lives with Alzheimer's
Have you or a loved one recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease?
If you have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in the last two years and would like to share your experience to help shape our work please get in touch via stories@alzheimersresearchuk.org
Order health information
Alzheimer's Research UK has a wide range of information about dementia. Order booklets or download them from our online form.
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Dementia information
Read more about support for people affected by dementia.
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PDF, 4.5 MB, 21 pages
This information was updated in May 2026 and is due for review in May 2028. It was written by Alzheimer's Research UK's Information Services team with input from lay and expert reviewers. Please get in touch if you'd like a referenced copy.
This information is produced with support from The Perfume Shop who had no input into the content.
