One in four dementia victims has suffered symptoms for two years before diagnosis
THOUSANDS of dementia patients suffer in silence for years without seeing a doctor, as relatives think they are just getting old, research suggests.
A survey of 1,000 people with the condition and their carers for the Alzheimer’s Society found 26 per cent had waited more than two years for a diagnosis.
Of those, 42 per cent delayed because they believed their symptoms were simply a usual part of ageing, while 32 per cent were in denial or did not want a diagnosis.
Today is the start of Dementia ActionWeek and the charity is urging the public to seek help if they notice changes in themselves or loved ones.
The call is backed by Professor Alistair Burns, NHS England clinical director for dementia and older people’s mental health.
He said: “Often, older people may consider symptoms such as forgetfulness and memory loss as part of ‘normal’ ageing, so they don’t feel there is a need to do anything about them.”
But, he added: “If you or if someone you know is worried about these symptoms please approach your GP for an assessment – the sooner we see you, the sooner we can support you and your loved ones.”
The Alzheimer’s Society’s new campaign slogan is, “It’s not called getting old, it’s called getting ill”.
Kate Lee, the charity’s CEO, said: “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 show just how dangerous it can be to battle dementia symptoms alone and put off getting help.”
Caroline Abrahams, Age UK’s charity director, welcomed the campaign, saying: “We all need to pay more attention and act on changes as we age, particularly if they are impacting on our ability to undertake everyday tasks or involve shortterm memory loss.
“We should also take notice if we spot variations in someone’s personality and behaviours.”
Common early symptoms of dementia include memory loss, difficulty concentrating, struggling with familiar daily tasks, difficulty following a conversation or thinking of words, confusion about time and place, and mood changes.