The Importance of Getting a Dementia Diagnosis

“Mom’s having memory problems again, but what’s the point? It’s not going to get better.”
“Isn’t this just a normal part of getting older?”
“There’s no cure for dementia so it doesn’t matter what kind it is.”
Unfortunately, these defeatist attitudes about dementia remain a stigma even in 2025. And these attitudes are an impediment that can prevent people living fully and independently, even with the disease. Dementia can be a daunting prospect for individuals and their families, often causing uncertainty and concern about the future. While the idea of pursuing a dementia diagnosis can be frightening, there are compelling reasons to get an accurate diagnosis as early as possible. Doing so can significantly enhance the person’s quality of life, provide clarity for future planning, and ensure that appropriate treatments and support systems are in place.
Understanding dementia
Dementia is not a single disease; it’s an overall term that describes a group of symptoms associated with a decline in memory or other thinking skills severe enough to reduce a person’s ability to perform everyday activities. There are several types of dementia, each with its own causes and progression patterns, including:
Alzheimer’s disease: The most common type of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of cases. It is characterized by the deterioration of memory, reasoning, and thinking abilities.
Vascular dementia: Often caused by microscopic bleeding and blood vessel blockage in the brain, it is the second most common type of dementia and usually results from stroke or other vascular conditions.
Lewy body dementia: Characterized by the presence of abnormal protein deposits in the brain called Lewy bodies, affecting cognition, behavior, and movement.
Frontotemporal dementia: Involves the degeneration of nerve cells in the frontal and/or temporal lobes of the brain, affecting personality, behavior, and language.
Benefits of getting diagnosed
It’s important to get an official dementia diagnosis for several reasons. First, there are health conditions in older adults that can cause memory problems that aren’t necessarily dementia. The first step is to rule out other health problems such as urinary tract infection (which can cause brain fog or delirium) or problems with eyesight or hearing. Getting diagnosed can also help in the following ways:
- Tailored treatment plans: Each type of dementia may require different management strategies. For instance, medications used to treat Alzheimer’s disease can be ineffective or harmful for those with Lewy body dementia. Early diagnosis allows for the most effective treatment to slow the progression of the disease and manage symptoms more efficiently.
- Planning for the future: Early diagnosis provides individuals and families time to plan for the future. This can include making legal and financial arrangements, considering long-term care options, and discussing wishes regarding health care and living arrangements with loved ones.
- Access to support and resources: Being diagnosed early opens the door to a wide range of support services, including counseling, support groups, and community resources that can help patients and caregivers navigate the challenges of dementia. This could include participating in one of the many research studies that are working to find better treatments and medicines for people with dementia.
- Lifestyle adjustments and interventions: With early diagnosis, lifestyle changes and interventions can be implemented to potentially slow the progression of dementia. These may include dietary changes, physical fitness routines, cognitive therapy, and social engagement.
- Understanding and acceptance: A diagnosis can often provide a sense of relief to individuals and families who have been coping with unknowns. Understanding what is causing symptoms can help in adjusting expectations and finding meaningful ways to connect and communicate.
If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of dementia, the first step is to consult with a health care professional who can perform cognitive tests and assess medical history. From there, they may refer you to a neurologist, geriatrician, or a specialist in cognitive disorders for further evaluation and to discuss potential treatment and management plans.
Getting a diagnosis of dementia is an important step toward taking control of one’s health and future. It allows individuals and their families to make informed decisions, access necessary support, and implement strategies that can lead to a better quality of life. Although a dementia diagnosis can be challenging, the benefits of knowing and understanding one’s condition clearly outweigh the uncertainties of remaining undiagnosed.
This article is not intended to replace the advice of your health care provider.
Source: IlluminAge Communication Partners