While there is no such thing as a ‘normal’ memory and we are all different, you may have noticed ‘on-going’ differences in someone’s behaviour and have become increasingly concerned that they are not just ‘a bit forgetful’, but that they may be showing the first signs of dementia.

Some of the most common symptoms of dementia are memory loss and confusion, and it can also cause personality and behaviour changes. If you are concerned then it’s a good idea to encourage the person that you’re worried about to speak with their doctor, who can refer on to a specialist if necessary. A full medical assessment needs to be carried out before any diagnosis can be made.

If you are worried about someone becoming forgetful or confused, don’t assume that it is dementia.  It is important to know that many things other than dementia can cause memory problems.

Do try to persuade them to visit their GP.  An appointment can be made to see the GP in their surgery or they may prefer to make a home visit.  If dementia is suspected, it is often easier to assess and observe the person's behaviour in the home. It then becomes clearer exactly what the problems are. The GP will assess the person through:

• Analysis of background information − you can expect the GP to spend some time talking to you and (if you are simply accompanying someone) the person you are concerned about, to try to establish some of the symptoms. The GP will look at the person's medical history and that of other family members.
• Physical examinations and tests − The GP will normally carry out a physical examination and may perform a number of tests, such as blood and urine tests, to identify other conditions that may be causing confusion.
• Mental tests − The GP may ask a series of questions designed to test thinking and memory.

A proper diagnosis of dementia is essential, in order to:

• Rule out other conditions that may have symptoms similar to dementia and that may be treatable, including depression, chest and urinary infections, severe constipation, vitamin and thyroid deficiencies and brain tumours
• Rule out other possible causes of confusion, such as poor sight or hearing; emotional changes and upsets, such as moving home or bereavement; or the side-effects of certain drugs or combinations of drugs
• Access advice, information and support (emotional, practical and financial) from social services, voluntary agencies and support groups
• Allow the person with dementia to plan and make arrangements for the future.

If the person you care for does have a diagnosis of dementia then they may feel very emotional and require extra support. As a Carer you, too, will have questions and concerns about the future, and it might help to talk with a Carers Link Support Co-ordinator and with others in a similar situation. Please contact us on 0800 975 2131.