How to Cope with a Dementia Diagnosis

A dementia diagnosis can be life-changing. Even if you’ve noticed the signs for some time, hearing it confirmed can still feel overwhelming. You might be feeling a mix of emotions: shock, sadness, worry or even relief at finally having an answer.

Whether the diagnosis is your own or a loved one’s, it’s natural to feel uncertain about what comes next. But you don’t have to face it alone. There is help available, and there are steps you can take to feel more in control and supported.

In this guide, we’ll explore what a dementia diagnosis really means, how to manage the emotional impact and what practical actions you can take to move forward, one step at a time.

Understanding the diagnosis

Hearing the word “dementia” can feel overwhelming, but understanding what it means is an important first step. Dementia is not one single condition; it’s a term used to describe a range of symptoms that affect memory, thinking and daily functioning. It’s caused by damage to the brain, and different types of dementia affect people in different ways.

Some of the most common types of dementia include:

• Alzheimer’s disease — the most common form, often starting with memory loss
• Vascular dementia — caused by reduced blood flow to the brain
• Dementia with Lewy bodies — may include visual hallucinations and changes in alertness
• Frontotemporal dementia — more likely to affect behaviour, language or personality

An early diagnosis of dementia doesn’t mean everything changes overnight. Many people continue to live well for years, especially when they have the right support and a clear plan in place.

If the diagnosis came from a GP or memory clinic, it’s helpful to ask:

• What type of dementia is it?
• What symptoms should we expect in the early stages?
• Are there any treatments or medications available?
• What support services or follow-up appointments will be provided?

Bring someone with you to appointments if you can. They can help take notes, ask questions and offer reassurance.

Is dementia a terminal diagnosis?

Dementia is a progressive condition, which means it gets worse over time. Eventually, it will affect the body’s ability to function — including walking, eating and even swallowing. Because of this, dementia is considered a terminal illness.

However, the progression is often slow and gradual, and many people live for years after their diagnosis. With the right support, it’s possible to enjoy a good quality of life for a long time.

What matters most is making sure the person living with dementia is cared for with compassion, comfort and dignity — at every stage. This is where professional carers, family and specialist healthcare teams can all play an important role.

Processing the emotions

A dementia diagnosis can bring a wave of emotions and that’s completely normal. You might feel shock, sadness, anger, fear or even relief that there’s finally an explanation for the changes you’ve noticed. However you feel, there is no right or wrong response.

It can take time to adjust to the news. Some people want to talk straight away, while others need space to process things. If the diagnosis is your own, you might feel uncertain about the future or worry about becoming a burden. If you’re supporting a loved one, you may feel helpless or unsure how best to help.

What matters most is giving yourself, and others, permission to feel whatever comes up. Try not to rush into action before you’re ready. Take things one step at a time and focus on the support that’s available now.

Talking can make a real difference. Sharing your feelings with a trusted friend, family member or professional can help ease the emotional weight and remind you that you’re not alone in this. You don’t have to have all the answers straight away. It’s okay to feel uncertain, ask for help or take time to adjust.

Talking to family and friends

Sharing a dementia diagnosis with family and friends can feel daunting. You may worry about how people will react or find it difficult to put your thoughts into words. But having open, honest conversations early on can make a big difference — both for you and those around you.

Letting others know about the diagnosis gives them the opportunity to understand, offer support and adjust their expectations in a compassionate way. It also means you won’t have to carry the emotional weight on your own.

You don’t need to tell everyone at once. Choose people you trust and speak at your own pace. If the diagnosis is your own, you might want to focus on how you’re feeling and what kind of support you would find helpful. If you’re supporting a loved one, try to involve them in the conversation wherever possible.

Encourage questions, even if you don’t have all the answers. Sharing reliable information about dementia can help others understand what to expect and reduce fear or stigma. You don’t have to explain everything in one go. Small, honest conversations over time often feel more natural and easier to manage.

Making practical plans early

After a dementia diagnosis, it’s natural to focus on the emotional side first. But once things begin to settle, making a few early plans can bring a sense of control and confidence about the future. Taking action now — while the person living with dementia is still able to express their wishes, helps ensure their voice remains at the centre of any decisions.

Here are some key areas to consider:

1.    Create a care plan

This outlines the kind of support that might be needed now and in the future. It can include preferences around daily routines, personal care, meals and communication. A clear plan helps family, friends and professionals work together to provide consistent, respectful care.

2.    Consider legal arrangements

Setting up a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) for health and welfare, as well as property and finances, means that someone trusted can make decisions if the person becomes unable to do so later on. It’s also worth checking that important documents such as a will are up to date.

3.    Look into financial support

There may be financial benefits available, such as Attendance Allowance or Carer’s Allowance, depending on your situation. A local Citizens Advice service or dementia support organisation can help with guidance.

4.    Review home safety

Simple adjustments — like clearer signage, better lighting or removing trip hazards — can help maintain independence and reduce anxiety around everyday tasks.

Looking after your well-being

Taking care of your physical and emotional well-being can help you or your loved one live more confidently with dementia. Here are some simple ways to support daily life:

• Stay active with gentle movement like walking or stretching
• Keep to a daily routine for structure and reassurance
• Use reminders, labels or calendars to support memory
• Enjoy familiar activities such as music, reading or gardening
• Stay socially connected through chats, visits or hobbies
• Ask for help when needed — you don’t have to do it alone

Explore more practical advice in our guide: Tips for Living with Dementia

Resources and support

Navigating a dementia diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. There are many organisations, services and people ready to help — whether you need emotional support, practical advice or long-term care planning.

Here are some useful resources to explore:

• Alzheimer’s Society – Offers extensive guidance, a national helpline and local support groups
• Dementia UK – Provides expert advice through Admiral Nurses and family support
• Age UK – Helps with practical advice on benefits, care and legal planning
• NHS: Dementia Guide – Information on symptoms, diagnosis and treatment
• Carers UK – Support and advice for family carers

If you’re looking for dementia diagnosis support, Trinity Homecare offers trusted one-to-one care tailored to each stage of the condition. From emotional reassurance to help with daily routines, our experienced carers provide consistent, dignified support in the comfort of home.

In our Dementia Information Hub, you can find out all you need to know about dementia, including its symptoms, stages and treatments.

Dementia care at home

At Trinity Homecare, we understand that a dementia diagnosis can be overwhelming. We offer ‘Outstanding’ rated dementia care in the comfort of your own home. Studies show that 85% of people prefer to stay in their familiar surroundings, and we’re committed to making that possible.

With professional care tailored to your loved one’s needs, we help them enjoy a happy and fulfilling life while staying at home. For more details on how Trinity Homecare can support you, explore our live-in dementia care guide and discover the compassionate care your family deserves.

Talk to us today

At Trinity Homecare, our ultimate goal is to enrich your lifestyle in the comfort and familiarity of your own home. This allows you to live the independent lifestyle that you love without the daunting thought of moving into a care home.

Call us now on 0207 183 4884 in confidence for a free no obligation quotation. If enquiring outside of our opening hours, please complete our online form and we will contact you the next day.