Sensory
To find out more about sensory challenges in dementia read the attached booklet or watch Agnes Houston share her pioneering work on the following video:
How do changes in the brain cause us to see differently?
What if dementia did not affect your memory but affected your vision?
Do I see what you see? is a short film, directed by Simon Ball about the experiences of people living with Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA), a rare form of dementia which affects the visual areas of the brain. Featuring 6 personal stories, this animated film recreates what it feels like to live with the knowledge that your brain might be playing tricks on you and that you are seeing differently from everyone else. Everyday tasks are beset with obstacles, but their stories also force us to question our own perceptions and whether we are truly seeing the world around us the way others do.
Funded by Created Out of Mind and Alzheimer's Society, supported by Wellcome. Credit music by Valerie Blumenthal and Sound Design by Zai Tang.
Eye tests at home
Did you know that you can have an eye or hearing test done at home? You are eligible to receive your free NHS eye test at home, or in a care home or supported living facility, if you are unable to attend an optometry practice on the High Street unaccompanied.
If you have a regular optometrist who you have been seeing for a long time, it’s worth asking if they might consider a home visit as your needs change. Otherwise, you have the right to request the records from your last eye test to share with anyone else who might be providing you with care.
Some optometry practices offer home hearing tests as well. However, there may be a fee for this. Please enquire with your chosen provider.
For more information about eye tests at home, you can visit the RNIB’s web page on the topic.
World Health Organization Resources
Information about eyecare for people living with dementia, including pocket card to support communication with eyecare professionals. This includes a double-sided card to easily declare a dementia diagnosis and any support needs to your optometrist and their practice staff. Dementia can impact the eye test in many ways, and everyone is different, so that’s why it’s important to let the optometrist know you have dementia, ideally before your appointment. Print and fill out at home!
Talking Sense: Living with Sensory Changes and Dementia by Agnes Houston
Click here to download the free PDF and Audiobook for Talking Sense.
Dementia & Sensory Challenges
Click on the image to download.
