Diagnosis
Diagnosing dementia is often difficult, particularly in the early stages. A definite diagnosis of the cause of dementia may only be confirmed at post mortem or, in very rare instances, through a brain biopsy.
The GP is the first person to consult. The GP may then refer the person being diagnosed to a specialist consultant.
Assessments can include conversations with the person being diagnosed and those close to them, a physical examination, memory tests and/or brain scans.
The Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) is the most commonly used test for complaints of memory problems or when a diagnosis of dementia is being considered.
Becoming forgetful does not necessarily mean that you have dementia. Memory loss can be an effect of ageing. It can also be a symptom of stress or depression. In rare cases, dementia-like symptoms can be caused by vitamin deficiencies and/or a brain tumour.
Related factsheets
Diagnosis
Conditions with dementia-like symptoms
Symptoms
Some of the first signs of Alzheimers disease include lapses in memory and problems with finding the right words. Other symptoms that may develop include:
- Memory problems: For example, forgetting the way home from the shops, or being unable to remember names and places.
- Mood changes: Particularly as the parts of the brain that control emotion become affected by disease. People with dementia may also feel sad, frightened or angry about what is happening to them.
- Communication problems: For example, a decline in the ability to talk, read and write.
Alzheimer's Society is a registered Charity No. 296645.
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