There is a three step diagnosis process that is recommended if you are worried about yourself or someone you know displaying signs of dementia.

The First Step

VISIT YOUR OWN DOCTOR AND EXPECT HIM OR HER TO TAKE YOUR CONCERNS SERIOUSLY.

The doctor may do a short memory test and depending on that result, he/she may refer you to a specialist. The doctor will also do other tests to exclude any other illness eg: thyroid test.

If the doctor carries out a short test and does not refer you to a specialist, you might like to discuss what was found and whether re-assessment should be carried out in six to twelve months.

If your doctor does not feel a referral to a specialist is necessary but you remain concerned you have the right to request a referral and receive it.

When you visit the doctor, try to have a list of:

• Examples - What concerns you? Why it concerns you?
  
• Onset - When you felt it first started? How you first noticed it?
  
• History - Any thing of significance that has happened in your person's life.
  

The Second Step

REFERRAL TO A SPECIALIST
The specialist may be a:

GERIATRICIAN
A doctor who specialises in the health of older people

PYSCHO-GERIATRICIAN
A doctor who specialises in the mental health of older people

NEUROLOGIST
A doctor who specialises in the functioning of the brain and nervous system

The diagnostic process will include one or more of the following:

• A further test of memory ability
• A full medical assessment with blood test etc
• A special xray eg: CT scan or M.R.I.
• A more comprehensive memory test (sometimes carried out by a specialist in this area).

The Third Step

CONFIRMING A DIAGNOSIS AS TO THE POSSIBLE CAUSE OF THE MEMORY LOSS

It is not always possible for the specialist to be able to give a diagnosis even after these tests. He/she may say that some type of dementia is the reason but not which one. The doctor may say that the tests do show some memory loss but it is too early and not clear enough to say that it is caused by a dementia such as Alzheimer's disease.

In this case they may suggest you or the person you are supporting return for a further consultation in six to twelve months. Continuing uncertainty can be distressing, but unfortunately it is not always possible to be 100% sure.

Sometimes the doctor can be sure and will inform you or the person you are supporting that they have dementia.

Whether you receive a diagnosis or not, Alzheimers Auckland are available to provide a comprehensive range of services that offer advice, information, education and support. The catch-cry we hear all too often is "I wish I had heard about you two years ago".  We're only a phone call away so please phone 0800-004-001 and you can speak to one of our Advisors who can provide all the information you might need.