An Alzheimer Society survey says almost half of people who have Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias aren’t seeking help soon enough.
The national survey said the gap among Canadians dealing with brain diseases is largely caused by low rates of awareness of the early signs of dementia.
“This prevents many people from seeking a diagnosis early in the stages of the disease, when they might otherwise access medical treatment and support,” said Jennifer Hamilton, support and education coordinator for the Alzheimer Society B.C., Vernon branch.
Almost half of the respondents in the survey waited at least a year to see a doctor because they thought their symptoms were simply old age. Among B.C. respondents, 57 per cent of caregivers felt they or their family member or friend were reluctant to seek a diagnosis because they either thought the symptoms were part of normal aging, didn’t want to talk about it with anybody, they didn’t want to see their doctor, or they didn’t think anything could be done about it anyway.
Hamilton said many mental faculties, such as remembering people’s names can decline with normal aging, but there are warning signs that some mental difficulties may be more severe. Symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease include loss of memory, difficulty with day-to-day tasks and changes in mood and behaviour. She encourages anyone who may be experiencing some of these symptoms to seek medical advice as soon as possible.
About three-quarters of respondents to the survey said they wished they had known sooner that they had Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias. Earlier access to treatment may minimize symptoms and give families better understanding of what happens as the disease progresses and gives them more time to prepare for the future.
The society offers a variety of resources. There is a free local support and information group that meets monthly to exchange information, and provide the support and friendship with others whose lives are affected by dementia. This is a forum for sharing practical tips and strategies for coping with the disease and the opportunity for discussion.
For more information contact Hamilton toll-free at 1-800-634-3399 or jhamilton@alzheimerbc.org.
