High numbers delay seeking dementia diagnosis, survey suggests

According to a survey carried out by the Alzheimer’s Society, significant numbers of people delay visiting their GP to seek a diagnosis for dementia, by up to a year.

The survey found that nearly two-thirds of people feared that being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s would mean their lives were over. However, the charity warned that an early diagnosis would actually help sufferers to live as well as possible.

The survey collated the responses of 2,000 adults. Almost half claimed they though they would have to stop driving immediately, while 20 per cent feared they would lose their partner or friends if they were diagnosed with the condition.

Around 60 per cent claimed they thought they would struggle to join in conversations, while half worried people would think there were ‘mad’ if they were diagnosed.

The study found that one in three people surveyed did not visit the GP because they assumed memory problems were a natural part of getting old.

Jeremy Hughes, chief executive of the Alzheimer's Society, said: "Too many people are in the dark about dementia - many feel that a dementia diagnosis means someone is immediately incapable of living a normal life, while myths and misunderstandings continue to contribute to the stigma and isolation that many people will feel.

“There's no question that it can have a profound and devastating impact on people, their family and friends - but getting a timely diagnosis will enable people with dementia to live as well as possible."