Getting a dementia diagnosis—even though it can be difficult emotionally—comes with some significant benefits, both for the person being diagnosed and their loved ones.
How to get a diagnosis
Initial Assessment: You’ll likely start with a visit to your GP. They will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and assess your cognitive functions. This initial assessment helps determine if further evaluation is needed.
Specialist Referral: If your GP suspects dementia or needs further clarification, they may refer you to a specialist, such as a neurologist, geriatrician, or psychiatrist, who is an expert in diagnosing and managing dementia.
Comprehensive Evaluation: The specialist will conduct a more thorough evaluation. Which may include:
· Detailed medical history, including family history of dementia.
· Cognitive tests to assess memory, thinking skills, and reasoning abilities.
· Neurological examination to check for signs of brain function impairment.
· Imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans to look for brain changes that may indicate dementia.
· Blood tests to rule out other possible causes of cognitive impairment.
Diagnostic Criteria: The diagnosis of dementia is often based on specific criteria, such as those from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) or the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10).
Discussion and Diagnosis: Once all evaluations are completed, the specialist will discuss the findings with you and your family. If dementia is present, they will provide a diagnosis, specify the type, if possible (like Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, etc.), and discuss treatment options and management strategies.
It’s essential to approach this process with patience and openness, as it may involve multiple visits and tests to arrive at a conclusive diagnosis.
Benefits of Getting a Diagnosis
- Access to Treatment: While there’s no cure for most types of dementia, treatments can help manage symptoms and slow progression. Early diagnosis can give more time to explore options like medications, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
- Rule Out Other Conditions: Some conditions (e.g. vitamin deficiencies, thyroid issues, depression) mimic dementia symptoms but are treatable. A proper diagnosis ensures these aren’t missed.
- Better Management of Health: Knowing the diagnosis allows doctors to tailor care plans to reduce complications and maintain health for as long as possible.
Practical Benefits
- Planning Ahead: It gives the person and their family time to make legal, financial, and personal decisions while the person can still participate.
- Safety: Families can take steps to keep their loved ones safe (e.g., fall prevention, medication management, and driving safety).
- Access to Support Services: A diagnosis opens doors to resources like dementia care specialists, support groups, respite care, home health services, and community programs.
Emotional and Social Benefits
- Validation: Understanding what’s been causing changes in memory or behaviour can bring relief. It puts a name to what’s happening.
- Support for Caregivers: Families and caregivers can better understand what to expect and how to support their loved one—and themselves—through the journey.
- Connection: A diagnosis can help others—friends, coworkers, the community—better understand the person’s needs and offer support.
Bonus: Participation in Research
- Early diagnosis may allow people to participate in clinical trials for new treatments or contribute to research that helps others in the future.
Dementia Action Week – 19 – 25 May 2025
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