An early diagnosis helps you to access:

• the right support to live as well as possible, including treatments to help with symptoms
• information to help you and others understand the changes you’re experiencing
• any benefits or legal protection you may be entitled to

Reasons to speak to a GP

Early diagnosis can help you

If you’ve only recently become aware of changes, it might feel as though your symptoms aren’t ‘bad enough’ yet. But getting an early diagnosis of dementia can be important.

In an Alzheimer’s Society survey, 3 out of 5 people with dementia wish they had got a diagnosis sooner. There are important reasons for this, which may help you if you are wondering whether to talk to the GP.

It might not be dementia

Problems with memory and thinking aren’t always dementia. Many other conditions can cause similar symptoms which can be treated, including:

• depression or anxiety
• medication side effects
• sleep problems
• problems with eyesight or hearing
• chest or urinary tract infections
• severe constipation
• thyroid problems
• stress 
• iron and vitamin deficiencies

There are also other causes of memory problems and thinking that are different to dementia, and can get better with the right support, such as mild cognitive impairment. Often, it’s a combination of things that cause symptoms. Seeing the GP can help you get the treatment you need to feel better.

Benefits of having a dementia diagnosis

If you have dementia, being diagnosed at an earlier stage gives you a chance to adjust and get things you need.

Access to support 

There is no cure for the diseases causing dementia yet. But there is lots of support that can help you live as well as possible. Getting a diagnosis should let you know what type of dementia you have. It can also help you plan for the future and access therapies and support groups. This may also mean you get access to medicines to help you manage your symptoms.

Benefits and protection

Getting a dementia diagnosis means you can access financial benefits you might be entitled to. It also means that you are legally protected from discrimination (being treated unfairly).

Being able to explain why you’re having problems

It can be challenging for other people to understand why you are not able to function as well as you used to. This can be frustrating. Getting a diagnosis of dementia can help people to adjust to the changes you’re experiencing and support you more effectively.

It’s important not to write off your symptoms as being unimportant. Your problems are worth investigating – you deserve to know what is behind them and healthcare professionals are there to support you. Deciding to speak to your GP is a positive and important step.