What is dementia?

Dementia is an illness. People with dementia forget many things faster than before. For example, important appointments or the names of friends.
People with dementia can no longer do many things as well as before. For example, cooking. People with dementia also often forget where they are or where they want to go. It is hard for them to find their way.

Why is explaining about dementia important?

Those who sometimes forget things do not necessarily have dementia.
Explaining about dementia helps answer the question: “Am I only forgetful or do I have dementia?”

If dementia can be treated, the condition does not get worse so quickly. So it is important to know whether people have dementia or not.

How does dementia diagnosis work?

A psychologist takes part in the dementia diagnosis. A psychologist is someone who knows people very well. The psychologist for dementia advice is called Ms. Christine Völk.

Christine Völk talks with people who come for an explanation about everyday problems. They do simple tests. These tests enable the psychologist to determine whether you have dementia.

This service helps the people affected by explaining:

• what they can do against dementia
• how dementia can best be treated
• where and from whom there is help with dementia

What do I need for dementia diagnosis?

You need a referral from your doctor.
After the diagnosis your doctor also receives the test results.

Where can I receive dementia diagnosis?

You can be tested at the Volkshilfe day centres in Steyr, Linz and Schwertberg.

What does dementia diagnosis cost?

Dementia diagnosis is free.