A new checklist has been released by the Alzheimer's Society to help people identify dementia symptoms at an early stage and gain quicker access to support. Research conducted by the society, in conjunction with the Royal College of GPs, found that one in four people, according to a study of 1,019 dementia sufferers and their carers, experienced symptoms of the disorder two years before being diagnosed.
The number one reason - given by 42 per cent of respondents - for that gap between the first signs of dementia and its diagnosis was that the symptoms were being mistaken by individuals and families as just a consequence of growing old. In total, 26 per cent of the people surveyed went more than two years before receiving a diagnosis, with a quarter of those only getting one, or seeking one, when they had reached crisis point.
Included in the checklist are:
- Struggling to find the right words or repeating questions and phrases
- Asking the same question over and over again
- Putting objects in unusual places
- Issues with daily living, such as struggling to pay bills or getting lost
- Behavioural or emotional problems such as becoming aggressive, withdrawn, acting inappropriately or walking about
- Having frequent problems finding the right word or regularly referring to objects as 'that thing'
- Being unable to learn new tasks
The full checklist can be found here .
People who are worried about their memories, or loved ones who feel like they might be detecting symptoms, are being encouraged to seek support by the Alzheimer's Society's new campaign "It's not called getting old, it's called getting ill." Dr Jill Rasmussen, the clinical representative for dementia at the Royal College of General Practitioners, told Sky News: "It's vital for patients, their families and GPs that conversations with the potential for a diagnosis of dementia are timely and effective.
"The new checklist developed with Alzheimer's Society is a simple, free tool to help patients and their families clearly communicate their symptoms and concerns during an often time-pressured appointment." Also speaking to Sky News, the Alzheimer's Society's chief executive, Kate Lee, added: "If you're worried for yourself or someone you love, take the first step this Dementia Action Week - come to Alzheimer's Society for support.
"The stark findings of our survey released today show just how dangerous it can be to battle dementia symptoms alone and put off getting help. Yes, getting a diagnosis can be daunting - I know I was terrified when my mum got diagnosed. But it is worth it - over nine in 10 people with dementia told us they benefited from getting a diagnosis."
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