Hundreds of families across the UK have been left waiting for months or even years for an accurate diagnosis of dementia, with some having to put their own lives on hold while caring for a loved one. A recent survey conducted

The charity is now calling for a national standard that would ensure someone with dementia receives an accurate diagnosis within 18 weeks of being seen and referred. This would put dementia on par with other major health conditions, such as cancer, which typically receive swift diagnoses and treatment plans.

Michael Fethon, whose father Jim was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2022 at the age of 69, has spoken out about the devastating impact of delayed diagnosis.

Think dad felt beside himself

"I think my dad felt beside himself because he was experiencing symptoms," Michael said. "It wasn't just memory loss." Over the course of 18 months, Jim's condition gradually deteriorated, making it increasingly difficult for him to perform everyday tasks such as driving and shopping.

Michael, who eventually had to give up his job to care for his father, believes that a sooner diagnosis would have made all the difference.

Read More: New Super Flu Vaccine Rollout Begins as NHS Regroups for Winter Health Surge

"If we'd had a diagnosis sooner, he could have started medication sooner," Michael explained. "While the medication doesn't cure dementia, it can help slow down its progression and reduce the severity of symptoms." The Alzheimer's Society is urging the government to take action to address this issue, with Michelle Dyson CB, the charity's chief executive, stating that a diagnosis can be a lifeline for families.

"Too many families spend months, and sometimes years, waiting for answers while their dementia progresses," she said. "It's like trying to plan a journey without knowing where you are going or when you will arrive." Dyson emphasized the importance of swift diagnosis, saying that it can help families access support and plan for the future.

She also highlighted the need for greater awareness and education about dementia, both within healthcare systems and among the general public.

Keith Andrews, a 72-year-old husband who has been married to his wife Sue for 57 years, has spoken out about the impact of delayed diagnosis on their lives. Sue was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease several years ago, and her condition has deteriorated significantly over time.

Keith says that waiting almost a year for a formal diagnosis made all the difference in their lives.

"I won't say it's easy," Keith said, "but you know where you're going, and you know where you're heading, and you feel a lot more confident in what you're doing." Before the diagnosis, Keith felt uncertain and unsure about how to care for his wife. Once they received a formal diagnosis, however, their lives became much more manageable.

"It's a horrible time," Keith said, "but before that diagnosis, I didn't know if I was doing the right thing or what to do even." The Alzheimer's Society survey found that 9 out of 10 families reported that a formal diagnosis made at least one aspect of life easier. This included understanding symptoms and behavior, supporting the person living with dementia, accessing information, or speaking to healthcare professionals.

Also Read: Women pose as men to buy testosterone online

The Department of Health and Social Care has been approached for comment on the findings, but so far, no response has been received. However, the government has announced plans to strengthen support for individuals affected

"This Government is determined to strengthen the support that is available both to individuals affected "We are bringing forward the timetable for Baroness Casey's commission on reform of the social care system, as recommended." The charity is urging the government to take swift action to address the issue of delayed diagnosis, which can have devastating consequences for families.

"Dementia does not wait," said Michelle Dyson. "Neither should diagnosis." With the current waiting times for dementia diagnoses being so long, it's essential that the government takes immediate action to improve support and services for individuals affected