Alzheimer’s Society publish reports into dementia diagnosis and treatments
The Alzheimer’s Society has published reports entitled ‘Unlocking the door to diagnosis’ and ‘Unlocking the door to treatment’.
The reports, which the Alzheimer’s Society describe as a ‘one of a kind analysis’ include Alzheimer’s Society research, clinical perspectives and data, and insight from people with lived experience of dementia.
The reports document how people diagnosed with early memory problems aren’t being monitored effectively, how average wait times from first symptoms to diagnosis are 3.5 years (with waits for Memory Clinic appointments averaging 6 months), one in five people with dementia saying they’ve had no support after diagnosis, and inconsistencies in treatments, with half of those prescribed dementia medications taking them for only one year after diagnosis. The treatment report also looks at non-pharmacological treatments, most notably CST.
Michelle Dyson CB, Chief Executive of Alzheimer’s Society, says:
“At every stage, people are missed. Symptoms are missed, diagnosis is delayed, and support often comes too late to be that lifeline so desperately needed by people with dementia and their loved ones.
This is not a backlog problem. It is a system that is missing people at every stage and while the system waits, dementia progresses – stealing time, independence and dignity. While politicians race to cut waiting lists, people with dementia aren’t even in the queue. Government action can’t wait.”
Both reports contain a series of recommendations that include:
- Clear national targets for diagnosis and local accountability
- Strengthened clinical guidance and standardised pathways
- Investment in and support for the dementia workforce
Find out more and read the reports here: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/what-we-do/policy-and-influencing/unlocking-door-dementia-diagnosis-treatments