What should I do if I suspect I have dementia?

The internet can tap into our fears about developing dementia mate wareware (mate wareware is the term Maori are familiar with) but there is better news out there these days. In some parts of the world there has even been a decline in the rate of the condition. While there’s not yet a cure for dementia mate wareware, with good support people can live better lives than they have in the past. The first step towards addressing your concerns is to see your doctor.

Most people don’t want to rush off to the doctor needlessly so it’s understandable that you’ll want to understand as much as you can about the symptoms that are bothering you. Remember however there may be conditions, other than dementia mate wareware, that may explain your symptoms so don’t get too far ahead of yourself.

Look for reputable sources of information. Aotearoa New Zealand has two recognised and reputable dementia mate wareware organisations Alzheimers NZ and Dementia NZ. The Dementia NZ website shows a list of symptoms that include:  List accessed 29-11-2024

• Poor short-term memory – This can include having difficulty paying attention, storing new information and / or recalling recent events.
• Difficulty in reasoning (organising, planning, explaining)
• Difficulty performing familiar tasks
• Difficulty with abstract thinking
• Loss of initiative
• Impaired judgement
• Disorientation
• Personality changes
• Changes in mood or behaviour
• Difficulties with language
• Coordination problems
• Deterioration in driving skills
• Difficulty with spatial awareness

If you have someone who knows you well and who you trust, talk to them about your worries. They may have had concerns for you too. This person may be a good support person to take with you when you take that next step of visiting your doctor.

Prior to making the appointment, talk to the nurse about the reason for your visit. They may suggest making a double appointment, giving you and the doctor sufficient time to talk it over properly. Take a list of the issues that concern you to that appointment. The process of diagnosis can be complex and take time as it often means exploring all possibilities. It may involve several visits.

• Your doctor will discuss your concerns
• They will review your medical history, probably undertake a physical examination, and ask about your mental health.
• They will probably run through a mental assessment with you, (which involves you answering questions and doing some small tasks).
• They may request lab tests and brain imagining

There are benefits for getting a diagnosis as early as possible. If you have been found to have a dementia mate wareware then you will be able to access a wider range of support and if suitable, medication that may delay the progression of the condition.