Positive thinking on dementia in primary care: Gnosall Memory Clinic

Memory problems are a common phenomenon in later life, and are sometimes symptomatic of dementia or other serious illness. A memory clinic established two years ago within primary care is facilitated by a practice health visitor. The clinic has focused on patients with newly identified symptoms in association with vascular disorders. Many patients presented with complex problems including physical, social and psychological dimensions. The clinic has attracted a referral rate three times that reported from hospital-based memory clinics, and has been able to meet the needs of patients and families with little use of other specialist services. Providing expertise within a practice is recommended as a preferred mode of service for people with memory problems. Health visitors are well placed to co-ordinate care for family members of all ages, including the elderly.