Dementia causes considerable fear amongst the elderly and their families, but although most types are incurable, early diagnosis can make treatments far more effective at slowing its development and maintaining good levels of mental functioning.
The unfortunate truth is that the majority of dementia sufferers remain undiagnosed. In Hampshire it is estimated that only 44% of those with dementia have been diagnosed and in Dorset this is as low as 26%. Clearly this has serious implications for the long-term mental health of those unaware they have the condition, which is why it is important to be alert to the symptoms and seek medical advice if you feel there is cause for concern.
Don’t Panic!
It’s important to remember that although there are many undiagnosed cases, there are also many other problems which can cause someone to develop lapses in memory. Urinary infections, depression, vitamin deficiencies, medications and even sudden changes such as moving house or bereavement can all generate symptoms similar to dementia.
Consequently you shouldn’t assume the worst, but instead seek professional medical advice. You can read more about what dementia is in our article,
Giving Hope to Dementia Sufferers but we will use the rest of this article to explain what happens when you need an assessment.
Diagnosing Dementia
There is no medical test for dementia at present. Essentially, a patient will be tested to see if there is impairment in their mental abilities. If this is the case then other potential causes need to be ruled out before dementia can be diagnosed.
The first step is to visit your GP. He or she will then perform a memory test, which will be used together with a detailed history of your condition to decide on the next stage.
This will vary depending on the assessment made and the facilities in the area where you live. However, if follow-up is necessary you are likely to be referred to an old-age psychiatrist or geriatrician. Patients under 65 may be referred to a neurologist. Because this process can be upsetting for people in a vulnerable mental state the specialist may make a home visit.
Another possibility is a Memory Clinic. These are becoming increasingly widespread and are intended to offer assessment, information and support for people with memory problems, as well as those caring for them.
Wherever you are referred, the following are likely procedures as part of the diagnostic process:
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A detailed medical history will be taken.
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Since many other conditions can lead to memory problems a physical examination will be used to investigate non-dementia causes. This will look at blood pressure and heart/lung function, whilst blood tests will screen for a range of abnormalities.
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You may be given a brain scan.
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Your behaviour may be assessed.
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You will be given mental tests. The most common of these is the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), which is a series of questions and tests. A score is given for correct responses to each of these, giving a maximum score of 30. People with Alzheimer’s would typically score 26 or less, though again, this is not a diagnosis because there can be many other causes. Typical MMSE questions might test your awareness of the date, your ability to remember words and whether you can identify objects.
It’s important to remember that this assessment is not just about diagnosing a condition. It’s also an opportunity for you and your family to find clarity and reassurance. So make sure you’ve written out any questions you may have and also that someone jots down anything useful from the consultation, including important medical terms.
If there is anything about which you are unclear don’t worry about doctors being busy people! The most important person in the room is you and it’s crucial you are given a full explanation of their findings. If you are unsure about something then ask!
Ongoing Assessment
Because dementia is so difficult to diagnose accurately it’s possible you may be placed under ongoing assessment. You will be seen regularly by your GP who will look carefully for any indications of deterioration in your condition over time. After anything from three months to a year you may be referred back to the specialist once more who will be able to review the situation after another assessment in conjunction with your GP’s records.
Diagnosis for a more Controlled Future
It is, of course, very upsetting if a diagnosis of dementia is made. However, the crucial thing to remember is that diagnosis is the starting point of making things better. Left undetected, dementia can advance to stages that make treatment much less effective. Caught early there is plenty of scope for medication and therapy, which will help you keep control over your life and maintain your mental faculties well into the future.
Support When You Need It
Nobilis is much more than a provider of general
in-home care. We offer a range of specialist services designed to care for people with particular conditions, such as dementia. Our staff undergo thorough and regular training to ensure they are fully equipped to provide sensitive and professional
in-home care for dementia sufferers.
When the difficulties brought on by dementia make independent living problematic both for the sufferer and their loved ones, we make it possible for them to stay in their own home safely and happily.
If you have any questions or concerns about this or any issue relating to care of the elderly you are welcome to contact our friendly support team. We promise not to treat your call as an opportunity to sell our services – our genuine intention is to offer help and advice to those who need it.
Telephone – 0845 680 0225