Spotting the Signs for Alzheimer’s or Dementia
When you start to notice little things in your mum, dad or loved one that feel “off,” it can be unsettling. Maybe they’ve started repeating themselves more. Maybe the hob was left on. Or they’ve gone quiet in social situations when they used to be the life of the party.
You might be asking yourself: Is this just old age? Or something more?
If you’re based in Epsom, Ewell, or one of our surrounding villages, this guide is for you. We’ll walk you through the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia, what to watch for, and—most importantly—where to find help right here in our local community.
Dementia vs Alzheimer’s: What’s the Real Difference?
You’ve probably heard the terms used interchangeably, but they’re not quite the same.
Dementia is the umbrella term for a group of conditions that affect memory, problem-solving, language, and everyday life.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, accounting for around 60–70% of cases.
Other forms of dementia include vascular dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies, and frontotemporal dementia. Each presents slightly differently—but all need attention, support, and understanding.
Early Signs to Look For (That Families Often Notice First)
When something changes, you’re likely to spot it before anyone else. Keep an eye out for:
- Getting lost or confused in familiar places (yes, even around Epsom town centre)
- Difficulty following conversations—especially in noisy environments like The Ashley Centre or a family lunch
- Repeating stories or questions in the same conversation
- A change in mood or personality—becoming withdrawn, irritable, or anxious
- Trouble managing everyday tasks like appointments, bills, or medication
These signs may be subtle at first, but they matter.
That’s why Home Instead Epsom & Ewell has created a free checklist for families—so you can track changes over time and feel confident bringing them to your GP.
Download it here:
OK, So What Should You Do Next?
💬 1. Talk About It
It can be a tough conversation, but bringing it up with your parent sooner rather than later can make all the difference. Be gentle. Share what you’ve noticed and suggest checking in with their GP—just to rule things out.
🩺 2. Book a GP Appointment
This is your first official step. GPs in the Epsom and St Helier NHS Trust area can refer your parent to local memory clinics or request further assessments. Don’t forget to bring your notes—or our checklist—with you.
🧭 3. Reach Out for Local Help
You’re not alone. Epsom and Ewell has fantastic local services for carers and those living with memory concerns:
- Alzheimer’s Society – Surrey: Runs a Memory Café in Ewell and support groups across the borough.
- Epsom & Ewell Age Concern: Offers dementia day care and carer advice. Pop into the Old Town Hall or call them on 01372 732456.
- Surrey Carers Hub: If you’re juggling work, kids, and care—you’re entitled to support. Check out: actionforcarers.org.uk
And if your parent is already connected to Epsom Hospital, they may be referred to the South West Surrey Memory Assessment Service, based nearby.
How the CQC rated Outstanding Home Instead Epsom & Ewell Can Support Your Family
We know how heavy this can feel. When you’re the one holding everything together—juggling work, family, and late-night Google searches about “memory loss in older adults”—you deserve a team that gets it.
Here’s how we help:
👥 Personalised Dementia Support at Home
Whether it’s a few hours a week or more regular care, our Care Professionals are trained in dementia care and matched based on personality and preferences. Familiar faces, consistent support.
✅ Our Dementia Signs Checklist
Created by our local care team, this checklist is simple, private, and helps guide those early GP conversations. Just ask us for your free copy.
🏡 Local Knowledge, Local Care
We’re not a faceless organisation. We’re based right here in the community—supporting families from Stoneleigh and West Ewell to Ashtead and Banstead. We partner with local GPs, pharmacists, and support groups to make sure no family falls through the cracks.
🫶 Family Support, Not Just Client Care
We’re here for you as well as your parent. From emotional check-ins to helping you navigate the care maze; we’re always just a phone call away.
In Summary: You Know Them Best—And That Matters
If you’re worried something is changing, don’t wait for it to become “serious enough.” Early support is available—and the sooner you reach out, the more choice you have in shaping the care that follows.
