Diagnosis
Pathway
If you or someone you know might have dementia the first thing to do is to speak to your GP.
ARE YOU WORRIED ABOUT YOUR MEMORY?
We all know what it is like to forget or misplace something. Have you ever bumped into someone in the street and not been able to think of their name? Or walked into a room and realised that you do not know why you went in there? Have you struggled to find the word that you want to say but can’t … but it is on the tip of your tongue?
These situations are a useful starting point in understanding what it is like to live with the symptoms of dementia.
IT'S NOT JUST ABOUT LOSING YOUR MEMORY
If you or someone you know is concerned about having dementia, it is important that you can identify the warning signs, know when to talk to your GP and understand how dementia is diagnosed. Alzheimer’s Society in conjunction with the NHS have developed a symptoms checklist to help clearly communicate symptoms and concerns during an often time-pressured appointment.
It is important to be open and honest in answering any questions your GP may have. Only a qualified healthcare provider, like your GP or a specialist, can make an official diagnosis of dementia. Click the link below to watch a 6 minute video of how to approach the subject with your GP.
HOW IS DEMENTIA DIAGNOSED
Your GP will start the diagnosis process by asking questions about the person’s medical history. They will also do a physical examination, a mental status examination, and lab and imaging tests. These tests will help the GP to find out if the symptoms being experienced are caused by a condition that can be treated and not dementia. Examples of this could be a B12 deficiency.
The Memory and Dementia Assessment Service provided by Sussex Partnership Foundation Trust, provides the dementia diagnosis pathway here in West Sussex.
Going through the dementia diagnosis pathway can take several months, for further help and guidance during this time please follow this link The The Next Steps
Once a diagnosis of dementia has been confirmed to you, it may make you feel numb, scared, and may make you feel like withdrawing from friends and family. It may be difficult to take everything in, give yourself time to adjust to what a dementia diagnosis means for you. Talk with your family and friends. Being open and honest about your diagnosis will help you and your family come to terms with the diagnosis and help you to seek further support, when it is needed.
Local Dementia Advisers from the Alzheimer’s Society can meet you to offer further support, practical advice, and information. They can also connect you with other services in your area. Socialising with other people has proven benefits for people affected by dementia. It can improve your confidence and meeting other people in a similar situation can help you feel less alone.
Support from a Dementia Advisor is accessible through a referral from your GP or by following this link. Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Support
OTHER POPULAR PAGES
Community News – Find out all that is happening in your local area from groups, clubs, and events to campaigns, such as Dementia Action Week. Find out what’s happening near you.
Community Blog – short informative stories written by our readers. Both professionals and people living with dementia or caring for someone with dementia.
