United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, English

Dementia is the result of damage to the brain caused by diseases such as strokes or Alzheimer’s disease. Many people believe that Alzheimer’s disease and dementia mean the same thing but, in fact, Alzheimer’s disease is only one form of dementia, which covers a wider range of diagnoses.
The five most common forms of dementia are Alzheimer’s disease, Lewy-Body disease, vascular dementia, fronto-temporal lobe dementia and mixed dementia, which is when there is more than one cause of dementia present.
The importance of an early diagnosis
Many people are afraid of the prospect of developing dementia, or of their loved ones developing the condition. In fact, according to a study conducted by the Alzheimer’s Society, more than half of people who are worried that they are showing symptoms of the condition put off getting a diagnosis for up to a year.
However, although the idea of getting a dementia diagnosis may be frightening, there are several good reasons for seeing a doctor when you first start to notice symptoms. If there are problems with your memory, there can be real benefits to knowing this early.

Level of Education: Continuing vocational education and training

Lead Organisation: Home Instead

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