Diagnosis of Dementia
Diagnosis of dementia requires a detailed evaluation of a person’s mental function, medical history, and physical condition. Because dementia involves a broad range of symptoms and underlying causes, the diagnostic process is comprehensive and may span several appointments with various healthcare professionals. Early diagnosis is essential, as it allows for better planning, symptom management, and access to support services.
Initial Assessment
The diagnostic journey often begins with a GP or primary care doctor:
They will gather a complete medical history, including symptoms, family history of dementia, and any existing health conditions
A physical examination and basic neurological checks help rule out other potential causes, such as vitamin deficiencies, thyroid disorders, or medication side effects
Cognitive and Mental Tests | Diagnosis of Dementia
A variety of cognitive assessments are used to evaluate:
Memory, particularly short-term recall
Language abilities, including naming objects or following instructions
Problem-solving and reasoning
Orientation, such as awareness of time, place, and identity
The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) are widely used screening tools.
Laboratory and Blood Tests
To eliminate other medical causes or contributing factors, doctors may order tests to check for:
Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency
Thyroid function
Liver and kidney function
Infections that could affect the brain
Brain Imaging
Scans are often used to look for structural abnormalities:
CT scans help rule out strokes, tumours, or hydrocephalus
MRI scans provide more detailed images of brain tissue and may reveal shrinkage patterns typical of certain types of dementia
PET scans assess brain metabolism and can help detect Alzheimer’s-specific changes
Specialist Referrals | Diagnosis of Dementia
If necessary, individuals may be referred to neurologists, geriatric psychiatrists, or memory clinics for further evaluation and confirmation.
Functional Assessment
This involves evaluating how dementia affects a person’s ability to carry out everyday activities:
Managing finances
Cooking or preparing meals
Driving
Personal hygiene
In summary, diagnosis of dementia involves a mix of clinical, cognitive, and imaging assessments to pinpoint the condition and rule out other causes. A timely and accurate diagnosis is vital to support planning and symptom management.
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