Several conditions can lead to dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease and vascular disease (including stroke).
Signs of dementia are unique to each person, but there will usually be:
Other conditions have symptoms similar to dementia and may be treatable, including depression, chest and urinary infections, severe constipation, vitamin and thyroid deficiencies and brain tumours, drug interactions or alcohol abuse. Other possible causes of confusion are poor sight or hearing; and emotional changes and upsets, such as moving or bereavement.
Finding out the cause of the symptoms can help you to:
Here we have a conversation between host, Liana Shannon, and geriatrician, Jasneet Parmar, about getting a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Learn about the process of diagnosis and what to do if you are worried about someone's memory or your own.
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If you or someone you care about is showing signs such as forgetfulness, confusion or agitation, speak to your family doctor. (If you don't have a family doctor, you can call your local Alzheimer Society).
At the end of the assessment, your family doctor may feel able to make a diagnosis, or she may request further test to make sure. She may also want to refer the person to a memory clinic or other specialist service for a fuller assessment.
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Preparing for Your Doctor's Visit
Alzheimer's Disease and Risk Factors
Importance of an Early Diagnosis
Principles of a Dignified Diagnosis
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