Understanding the Dementia Diagnosis Process

Getting a diagnosis can feel overwhelming. This guide explains what happens, how long it takes, and what you need to know. You can help your parent get the right support.

Why a Proper Diagnosis Matters

A diagnosis opens doors to treatment and support.

Some memory problems are not dementia at all. Things like infections, vitamin deficiencies, and thyroid problems can look like dementia. Depression and stress can also affect memory. Getting tests done means these other causes can be found and treated. A proper diagnosis also means you can plan ahead and get the right care in place.

Early diagnosis gives you and your parent more time to make choices together.

Spotting the First Signs

Memory loss alone does not mean dementia.

Everyone forgets things sometimes. But dementia is different. Your parent might forget recent conversations or repeat the same questions. They might struggle with familiar tasks like making tea or using the phone. They could get confused about time or place. Mood changes are common too. They might become anxious, suspicious, or withdrawn.

If these things happen often and get worse, it is time to see a doctor.

The First GP Appointment

Your GP is the starting point for diagnosis.

Book a longer appointment so you have enough time to talk. The GP will ask about symptoms and how long they have been happening. They will do basic memory tests and check for other health problems. Blood tests are common to rule out things like vitamin B12 deficiency or thyroid issues. The GP might also check blood pressure and do a physical exam.

This first visit usually takes 20 to 30 minutes.

Referral to a Specialist

Most people need to see a specialist for a full diagnosis.

The GP will refer your parent to a memory clinic or specialist. This could be a psychiatrist, geriatrician, or neurologist. The wait time varies across the UK. Some areas see patients within a few weeks. Others can take three to four months. You can ask the GP about wait times in your area.

Use this waiting time to keep a diary of symptoms and any changes you notice.

What Happens at the Memory Clinic

The memory clinic does detailed assessments.

A specialist will spend time talking to your parent and to you. They will ask about daily life, mood, and any behaviour changes. They will do more detailed memory and thinking tests. These might include drawing a clock, remembering words, or following simple instructions. The tests are not scary. They just help the specialist understand what is happening.

The whole assessment usually takes one to two hours.

Brain Scans and Other Tests

Scans help rule out other problems and show brain changes.

Your parent might have a CT or MRI scan. These show the structure of the brain and can spot strokes, tumours, or shrinkage. Some clinics also use PET or SPECT scans, but these are less common. The scans do not hurt. Your parent just needs to lie still for a while. Results usually come back within a few weeks.

Not everyone needs a scan, but most people will have one.

Memory and Thinking Tests

These tests measure how the brain is working.

The most common test is the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) or the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). These tests check memory, attention, language, and problem solving. The specialist might also use longer tests that look at specific skills. The tests are done in a quiet room with breaks if needed. They are designed to be fair and respectful.

The results help show what type of dementia it might be.

How Long Does Diagnosis Take

The whole process can take several months.

From first GP visit to final diagnosis, expect three to six months on average. This includes wait times for referrals, appointments, and test results. Some areas are faster. Others are slower. If symptoms are getting worse quickly, ask the GP to mark the referral as urgent. Private diagnosis is faster but costs between £1,000 and £3,000.

Patience is hard, but the wait helps ensure accurate results.

Getting the Diagnosis

The specialist will explain the results clearly.

You will have an appointment to discuss findings. The specialist will explain what type of dementia it is, if they can tell. They will talk about what to expect and what treatments might help. They should give you written information to take home. It is OK to ask questions. It is OK to feel upset or worried. Take someone with you to this appointment if you can.

This is the start of getting proper support, not the end of hope.

Types of Dementia

There are different types, and each affects people differently.

Alzheimer's disease is the most common type. It affects memory first, then other thinking skills. Vascular dementia happens after strokes or problems with blood flow to the brain. Dementia with Lewy bodies can cause hallucinations and movement problems. Frontotemporal dementia affects personality and behaviour first. Some people have more than one type mixed together.

Knowing the type helps plan the right care and treatment.

What Treatment Is Available

Treatment can help with symptoms and slow things down.

There is no cure yet, but medicines can help for a while. Drugs like donepezil, rivastigmine, and memantine can improve memory and thinking for some people. They work better if started early. Your parent might also need treatment for other symptoms like sleep problems, anxiety, or depression. Non-drug approaches matter too. This includes exercise, mental activities, and social contact.

Treatment plans are personal and should fit your parent's needs.

Support After Diagnosis

You do not have to manage this alone.

The memory clinic should connect you to local support services. This might include an Admiral Nurse, dementia adviser, or support worker. You can also contact national organisations like Alzheimer's Society or Age UK. They offer information, advice, and support groups. Many areas have memory cafes where people with dementia and families can meet. Online forums can help too.

Support is there when you need it.

Legal and Financial Planning

Sort out legal matters while your parent can still decide.

This includes making a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) for health and finances. This lets someone make decisions if your parent cannot. It costs £82 per LPA and takes 8 to 10 weeks to register. You should also look at benefits. Your parent might qualify for Attendance Allowance or Personal Independence Payment. These can help with care costs.

Getting these things done early prevents problems later.

Managing Costs of Care

Care can be expensive, but help is available.

The NHS provides some free support like memory clinic appointments and some nursing care. Social services can do a needs assessment and might fund care if your parent has limited savings. If savings are above £23,250, your parent will likely pay for their own care. Care homes cost between £600 and £1,200 per week depending on location and type. Many families use a mix of family care, paid carers, and day centres.

A financial adviser who specialises in care fees can help you plan.

Looking After Yourself

Caring for someone with dementia is hard work.

You might feel guilty, frustrated, sad, or angry. These feelings are normal. You need breaks and support too. Respite care gives you time off. This could be a few hours a week or a longer break. Local carers' centres offer support groups and advice. Some employers offer carers' leave or flexible working. Do not try to do everything yourself.

Looking after yourself means you can look after your parent better.

What Happens Next

Life will change, but good days are still possible.

Dementia gets worse over time, but the speed varies. Some people live well for many years after diagnosis. Regular reviews with the memory clinic help adjust treatment and support. You will learn what helps and what does not. You will find ways to communicate and connect. Your relationship with your parent will change, but love and care remain.

Take each day as it comes and celebrate small moments.