How to get a dementia diagnosis

4 minute read

Getting a dementia diagnosis is often a gradual process. You may be in a position where you are concerned about your memory, or think you have dementia. If you’re concerned about a loved one’s memory problems, encourage them to get checked with a general practitioner (GP). It’s a good idea for someone to be with them, so make sure they are with someone who knows them well. The first step is to see a GP, where they’ll carry out various assessments to understand the symptoms you are experiencing. Typically, they’ll delve into a person’s medical history, lifestyle and any worries by loved ones or caregivers.

In this article, we’ll explore how to test for alzheimer’s or dementia, getting a dementia assessment and the diagnosis.

What to expect when you see a GP about a dementia diagnosis

It’s natural to feel nervous when seeking a dementia diagnosis. But remember, getting a diagnosis offers you and your family better ways to prepare for the future. Expect a calm and structured dementia assessment, during which your GP will ask questions about your symptoms and overall health.

Initial consultation process

Prepare for lots to go through during your initial consultation process. Questions, tests, and discussions will occur to ensure the diagnosis is as accurate as possible.

Common questions the GP might ask during a dementia appointment

Firstly, your GP will get you to list the different symptoms you are experiencing. It could be symptoms from memory loss, confusion, difficulty with day-to-day tasks etc. They will also ask you about:

Medical history
Family medical history
Medication
Herbal remedy

Possible initial tests and evaluations

There’s no single test for dementia. There’s a set of tests and assessments throughout the diagnosis process. You’ll also be asked to do various tests to rule out any other causes, such as vitamin deficiencies or thyroid problems, as they can cause similar symptoms to dementia.

Blood
Urine
Physical
Mental

What do you need to tell your GP?

We know it can sometimes be hard to remember everything at an appointment. It’s a good idea to bring notes about what you want to tell or ask them. If possible, it’s helpful to bring someone who knows you so they can provide additional insight.

Referral to a dementia specialist

If dementia is suspected, your GP may refer you to a dementia specialist, geriatrician or neurologist for more detailed testing and potentially brain scans.

What to expect at an appointment with a dementia specialist

An appointment with a dementia specialist is an essential step in validating the dementia diagnosis and creating a plan for managing the condition. Expect the specialist, who could be a specialist, geriatrician or psychiatrist, to carry out an assessment which is more advanced than the ones carried out by your GP.

Receiving your results

Receiving your dementia diagnosis results can be daunting. It's good to bring a friend or family member with you for emotional support. Your GP will review your results and inform you about the next steps, including any adjustments you may need to make in your day-to-day life and how they will impact you moving forward. They’ll also speak with your family or friends and suggest ways they can better support you so you can still lead a meaningful life. If you feel that you aren’t able to discuss your results, you can also ask for another appointment.

If they do get diagnosed with dementia

It can be a life-changing moment for both the individual and their loved ones. While getting diagnosed with dementia may be hard to come to terms with, it may offer answers to unexpected behaviours and can help you navigate the future better. You can access the right treatments, support services and resources to support your loved one's journey with dementia. Led with kindness and make sure you reassure them that they’ll be fine and you’ll be there for them on their journey. Remind them that people can still lead active and fulfilling lives living with dementia with help and support.

Explore our resources for dementia support

We have a variety of resources to support those affected by dementia:

Support groups

Here’s a list of support groups and organisations in the UK. You can find more information about groups and organisations in your local area:

Ongoing dementia assessment

It's important that you have regular follow-up appointments after your assessment. After your condition has been identified, ongoing support is crucial to monitor the progression of the disease to formulate accurate care plans or any treatments. Dementia is a progressive condition – symptoms gradually worsen over time, so regular check-ups help healthcare professionals assess the condition and how it is being managed on a day-to-day basis.

Planning for the future

To optimise your loved one's wellbeing, make sure you plan for the future. Due to dementia causing a decline in memory and cognitive abilities, it's essential to plan as early as possible while the person is still able to express their wants and wishes for the future. Having these conversations can bring about peace of mind for your loved one and your family. It can have an impact on family members, so make sure others are aware of how this can impact them and ways to navigate it.

Future considerations:

Financial planning - writing or updating a will, how and where assets will be distributed
Legal planning - such as setting up a lasting power of attorney, which allows a trusted person to make decisions on behalf of the including health, welfare and property
Healthcare planning – what treatments or therapies they will need. If they would like care at home or go move in to a care home.
Technology – what technology will they need to assistant them in their day-to-day such as reminder aids

Here at Barchester, we offer dementia care and support to help your loved ones with dementia live meaningful and purposeful lives.

For over 30 years, our well-trained team have supported residents living with dementia – providing 24-hour, personalised care ensuring every person feels as comfortable and respected as possible. Find out more how we help our residents in our homes.