Bring dementia out of the shadows: a diagnosis of dementia still carries with it stigma and fear; people report that they fear receiving a diagnosis; people also report that they fear the consequences of becoming a carer of someone with a diagnosis.
In the UK today it is estimated that 60 per cent of people with dementia have no formal diagnosis. Avoiding ‘naming’ memory problems and possible dementia is a key factor preventing people seeking, and being offered the treatment and support they need, early enough.
GPs and primary health care teams are central to enabling people to have sometimes difficult conversations about memory problems, and to help people to live as well as possible with dementia.
Consider what messages your Practice gives to people who may be concerned about memory problems.
How confident are staff in dealing with memory problems?
What information about dementia, local support and services are available to patients within your Practice, and in what format?
Early diagnosis and interventions can deliver better outcomes for people with dementia, and their carers/families, and save money.
