Working and dementia

This information covers things to think about if you decide to keep working or stop working after being diagnosed. 

It also includes advice on talking to your employer and how they can support you, how the law protects you and what to do if you’re self-employed. 

Making a decision about working following a dementia diagnosis

If you’re working when you receive a diagnosis, you might be worried about how dementia will affect you. You might also be worried about how you are going to pay your bills or support your family.

Having dementia doesn’t mean you automatically have to give up work. You may be able to stay in work for a while if your symptoms allow you to continue with some help. Your employer may be able to support you with this.

Taking medication may also support you in staying in work for longer. Talk to your GP for advice.

Some people find that staying in work for as long as they can helps their mental and physical health, social connection and sense of purpose. But there is no right or wrong decision. 

Dementia affects people differently and you need to make the decision that feels right for you. Deciding whether to continue working after your diagnosis depends on your own feelings, the type of work you do and your personal situation.

You may decide to stop working or you may not feel comfortable carrying on in your role - this is completely understandable. In some cases, it may not actually be possible for you to continue working for legal reasons. 

Working with dementia

Many people say their first symptoms of dementia appeared while they were at work. You may notice that you:

• begin to forget meetings or appointments
• forget where certain things are
• start finding it hard to concentrate and follow conversations
• struggle with something you’re normally familiar with

People often put these symptoms down to tiredness, stress or depression.

This is why getting a diagnosis of dementia is an important first step. It can help you plan how long you want to carry on working and think about how your employer can help you.

Having a diagnosis can provide some legal protection for you in the way you are treated by your employer.

You might also want to think about whether you’d like to retire early to explore other interests, such as volunteering.