Families hit by long waits for dementia diagnosis
Summary
Many families face long waits, sometimes months or years, to get a dementia diagnosis for a loved one. The Alzheimer's Society wants a national rule so people get their diagnosis within 18 weeks after seeing a doctor, similar to the target for cancer diagnoses.Key Facts
- Families report waiting months or even years for a dementia diagnosis.
- Delays affect families’ mental health, work, and money.
- The Alzheimer’s Society suggests an 18-week maximum wait time for diagnosis after referral by a doctor.
- Early diagnosis allows earlier treatment, which can slow dementia progression.
- In a survey, nearly half waited more than six months after first seeing a doctor to get a diagnosis.
- Nine out of ten families said having a diagnosis made managing life easier.
- The government is planning reforms and has appointed a dementia tsar to improve dementia care.
- People with dementia and their families currently lack timely access to diagnosis and support.
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