Dementia is a set of symptoms that can include changes in memory, judgment, and reasoning. Symptoms can also include
changes in mood or behaviour. These symptoms can make it difficult to do daily tasks. Finding out the cause of the symptoms
can help people:
• Understand the changes
• Get the proper care and treatment
• Access advice, information, and support
• Plan for the future
If you have noticed symptoms, you might be wondering:
How to Start a Conversation About Diagnosing Dementia
Sometimes the person experiencing symptoms will suggest a check-up. For others, they may not like the idea of visiting a doctor.
This might be because:
• Dementia is interfering with their ability to notice their own symptoms.
• They may be afraid of having their symptoms confirmed.
Here are some tips to help set up the appointment:
• Suggest getting their heart, blood pressure or medication checked.
• Suggest that it is time for both of you to have a check-up.
If the person refuses a check-up and their symptoms are becoming severe:
• Consider contacting a Geriatric Assessment Outreach Team in your area.
• Contact Ontario Health at Home and ask for in-home support.
• Talk about strategies or community options with a Dementia Care Coach from the Dementia Society.
How is a Diagnosis of Dementia Made?
1. A doctor does a physical examination, orders tests, and asks questions. These questions test thinking and memory.
2. The doctor may refer the person to a specialist to help make the diagnosis. You can also ask for a referral to a memory
clinic or other specialist for a second opinion.
3. The referral may be made to another expert in the area. E.g., a psychologist, neurologist, speech-language
pathologist, or occupational therapist.
Ways to Help Start the Assessement
• Offer to make the appointment for the person.
• Let the doctor know if the person is reluctant to get a check-up.
• Offer to drive them to the appointment.
• Offer to go to appointments and tests together.
• Share information with other family members or caregivers.
• Write down the symptoms and their history ahead of time. You can share this information at the first
appointment.
• Be supportive. This can be scary for the person.
• Talk with others who have gone through similar events. Join a Dementia Society support group for caregivers in the Ottawa and
Renfrew area.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Diagnosis?
Making a diagnosis of dementia can take time. Here are some important points to consider:
• A thorough assessment will first be done to rule out other possible illnesses.
• Changes might be tracked over time before any conclusions can be made.
• If scans and other tests are needed, these can take time depending on wait lists.
What are the Supports in my Area?
The Dementia Society of Ottawa and Renfrew County is here to help. No diagnosis is needed. We can:
• Provide strategies for keeping your brain healthy
• Help you navigate the health care system
• Answer your questions about dementia and send you information
• Connect you with others who are facing similar situations
• Connect you with dementia friendly activities in the area
• For more information, visit Support from Dementia Society of Ottawa and Renfrew County.
For other geriatric services in the Ottawa area, visit Other Specialized Geriatric Services in Ottawa and the Champlain.
Region
You can learn more about dementia by:
• Signing up for Dementia Society education sessions.
• Watching webinars on topics related to dementia and caregiving on the Dementia Society YouTube channel.
• Read more here in our Facsheets section.