Families hit by long waits for dementia diagnosis
A survey by the Alzheimer's Society reveals that many families face months or years of waiting for a dementia diagnosis in the UK. The charity is calling for a national standard to ensure patients receive a diagnosis within 18 weeks of referral.
Why it matters
Delayed diagnoses prevent patients from accessing early interventions that could slow the progression of dementia and provide necessary support for caregivers.
Image source, Michael Fathon Image caption, Michael Fathon with his father, Jim, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease at the age of 69 in 2022
Hundreds of families say they have had to wait months or even years for a dementia diagnosis for a loved one.
Such long delays have an impact on their own work, finances and mental health, a survey for the Alzheimer's Society charity reveals.
The charity is calling for a national standard that would mean someone with dementia would receive an accurate diagnosis within 18 weeks of being seen and referred by a GP.
That would put dementia on a similar footing as other major health conditions, including cancer.
Michael Fethon says his dad, Jim, waited 18 months from their initial appointment with a GP before being diagnosed.
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