Diagnosing dementia can be extremely difficult, particularly in the early stages. Many people do not want to admit there is a problem and so even getting to the GP can be hard.
Early indicators include poor memory: getting lost, and forgetting people’s names and dates. Also changes in mood and behaviour: this can be due to an awareness that all is not well, as well as frustration and confusion.
Memory loss does not always mean a person has dementia, it can also be a symptom of stress, depression, medication side effects, infection or other health problems.
The first person to consult is the GP who may carry out some test themselves, and also refer to a Specialist Consultant the Consultant may be based in a Memory Clinic where there are other professionals, all of whom are experts in diagnosing, caring for, and advising people with dementia, and their families.
Assessments that may be carried out include physical examinations, memory tests (MMSE – mini mental state examination is the most commonly used test), brain scans such as a CT or MRI scan, and also conversations with both the person and those closest to them.