What is dementia?

Dementia is a general term for loss of language, memory, problem-solving and other thinking capabilities. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia.

What are the signs and symptoms of dementia?

Signs of dementia can vary greatly from patient to patient. Examples include problems with:

  • Keeping track of a wallet or purse
  • Short-term memory
  • Paying bills
  • Planning and preparing meals
  • Remembering appointments

Symptoms are progressive and can worsen over time, leading to dementia. If you or someone you know is experiencing memory issues or other changes in thinking, don’t ignore them.

Can a geriatrician diagnose dementia?

There is no one test to diagnose dementia; it is a comprehensive process. You may go through many types of tests. The tests look at how your brain thinks, works, and reacts. Then, your doctor will review all the information to determine if a dementia diagnosis is likely.

Physical and medication therapies can help treat some dementia symptoms. So, it helps to find out what is the reason for the symptoms sooner rather than later. Early dementia diagnosis helps you plan for the future. It can also make living, financial, health care, or legal decisions easier.

A prompt diagnosis can provide you with more time to build the best relationship with caregivers and doctors. Your regular doctor might work with you to figure out the main issue. They may also refer you to one or more of these physicians for certain tests:

  • A psychiatrist
  • A neurologist who specialises in the nervous and brain system
  • A psychologist, or a neuropsychologist, who specialises in memory and mental work
  • A geriatrician who specialises in older adults
  • Another mental health specialist

What to expect if dementia is diagnosed

If the person is diagnosed with dementia, the physician should describe what kind they have and discuss any treatment that may be available, including medication. There should be a chance to ask any questions. The expert may also direct the person towards other sources of support, such as social services or support groups.

Often, once a diagnosis is made, the person will be referred back to their GP for continued care and support.

Life after a dementia diagnosis

After a diagnosis of dementia, it is natural to wonder what to do next and to feel uncertain about what the future holds. Dementia is a progressive condition, so the person’s capabilities will deteriorate over time, but the right support and treatment can help them live as well as possible after the diagnosis.

Summary

Dementia is a serious condition that causes changes in behaviour, thinking, and function. Early diagnosis is vital so that people with dementia and their families can plan for the future and access treatment that can improve their standard of living.

There is no one test for dementia diagnosis. Instead, doctors use a range of lab and imaging tests and assess a person’s cognitive and working capabilities. They make the diagnosis according to these results, and after ruling out other potential causes of the symptoms.