An Alzheimer’s Society survey of 1,100 people has shown that only one third of individuals report the symptoms of dementia to a GP within a month of spotting them
Experts have underscored the importance of recognising dementia symptoms that go beyond what’s considered “normal ageing”, as a survey revealed a staggering 85 per cent of Britons are hesitant to seek medical advice. Prompt diagnosis is crucial for ensuring individuals receive the necessary support and treatment.
But a survey conducted by the Alzheimer’s Society found that merely one-third of individuals report signs of dementia to their GPs within a month of noticing them, whether in themselves or their loved ones. Shockingly, only 15 per cent of those surveyed sought help “immediately”, indicating that a vast majority, 75 per cent, delayed seeking professional guidance.
The survey, which included 1,100 participants, highlighted that many kept silent due to doubts about whether the symptoms observed were indicative of dementia or just typical age-related changes. “One in three people (33 per cent) who notice symptoms of dementia in themselves or a loved one keep their fears to themselves for over a month,” the charity said.
An additional 11 per cent admitted they had not yet discussed their concerns despite acknowledging early symptoms. This hesitancy to address potential warning signs results in significant delays in obtaining medical advice, with nearly a quarter of individuals waiting more than six months to see a healthcare professional.
Early indicators of dementia, such as difficulty following conversations, problems with concentration, and memory lapses, are frequently overlooked as mere signs of normal ageing, like hearing impairment or occasional forgetfulness. The survey further flagged that 16 per cent of individuals are deliberately “avoiding” seeking a diagnosis due to concerns about the impact it may have on their personal relationships, citing seven potential early signs of dementia which include:
- Difficulty following a conversation
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory loss
- Hearing loss
- Forgetfulness
- Mood swings
- Difficulty moving.
Moreover, the survey revealed that 44 per cent are apprehensive about the prospect of being patronised by caregivers or relatives, who might start to “talk down” to them. Kate Lee, former CEO of the Alzheimer’s Society, advocated for greater transparency and conversation around the subject.
She said: “We can’t continue to avoid the ‘d’ word – we need to face dementia head on.” The charity outlines signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia as:
- Poor judgment and decision-making
- Inability to manage a budget
- Losing track of the date or the season
- Difficulty having a conversation
- Misplacing things and being unable to retrace steps to find them.
In contrast, some typical age-related changes are:
- Making a bad decision once in a while
- Missing a monthly payment
- Forgetting which day it is and remembering later
- Sometimes forgetting which word to use
- Losing things from time to time.
Ms Lee recommended that anyone who notices signs that something isn’t quite right should use the charity’s symptoms checklist and bring it up with their GP.
