How dementia is diagnosed and what to expect

Leona Lim and her family started noticing a difference in her mom’s memory over the course of a few years. They wondered if she was just becoming forgetful as she was aging, or if there was something more going on.

“She was relying on others more and more to remember things, she had lost her daily routine, and she was aware she couldn’t remember names of people she knew that she should,” explains Leona. “We really didn’t know where to turn.”

As residents of Cranbrook, Leona and her mom were able to access the MINT Memory Clinic, where she was assessed and monitored, and provided referrals and recommendations. At this unique clinic, families are supported by a team of doctors, nurses, social workers and other health-care professionals, all in one place.

A diagnosis for dementia and Alzheimer’s is made by a family doctor or a specialist. Testing and making a diagnosis is a process that occurs over time, as it’s important to rule out other conditions before making a diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer’s.

There isn’t one single test that can tell you that you have dementia or Alzheimer’s. Symptoms of Alzheimer’s and dementia can also be similar to symptoms of other conditions.

“For example, someone who is having some memory issues may be depressed, or have an infection causing a delirium,” says Shannon Paul-Jost, a clinical nurse specialist in gerontology. “Determining if the individual has dementia versus depression or delirium requires a detailed investigation exploring how long they have had symptoms, and ruling out any underlying medical causes that could be contributing to the memory issues.”  

Testing and assessment may include:

• Mental and physical exams
• Lab tests including detailed bloodwork
• Scans such as X-rays, EEGs or CT scans
• Psychiatric and psychological evaluations

Alzheimer’s disease: Getting a diagnosis (PDF) (Alzheimer Society)

Preparing for your doctor’s visit (PDF) (Alzheimer Society)

Sometimes we may notice changes in our loved ones before they do. If you have concerns about changes in their memory or language and communication, if they’re having difficulty doing familiar tasks, or seem disoriented, you can gently broach the topic with them.

Here are some tips for talking with your loved one about what might be a sensitive subject:

• Timing is everything. Sensitive conversations require those with memory issues to be ready to have a discussion. Ensuring your loved one is having a good day, and is willing to talk openly, can open the door to the conversation
• Start a casual conversation by asking questions about a time or situation when their memory issue was apparent. Exploring how the individual perceived the situation allows the individual to feel safe, rather than judged. It will also help you understand how they may be feeling, such as anxiety, fear or embarrassment.
• If they become upset by the conversation, stop the discussion and redirect the conversation to validate their feelings.
• Validating feelings and reassuring your loved one helps them understand that the "memory discussion" is to help them to live as safely and independently as possible.
• Focus on their strengths and capabilities, and emphasize the need to pro-actively prepare if their memory issues become worse.
• Revisiting the conversation may be required. Individuals with memory issues may need time to process information and reflect on the conversation. It's best to consider how you say things and choose words that convey care, concern and compassion.

Being diagnosed with dementia can be devastating. But you can still live well with dementia.

“Engaging with local community programs and services that support your loved one on the dementia journey can ensure that they have the best quality of life by finding purpose and meaning in each day," says Shannon. "Living well with dementia also requires friends and family to understand and support the person’s dementia journey, and to meet them where they are at each and every day.”

The Alzheimer Society of Canada is an excellent place to start for both individuals and caregivers. The Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s First Link® Dementia Helpline can help answer questions about dementia, provide support or coping strategies, or help you locate services in your community,:

• English: 1-800-936-6033 (Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.)
• Cantonese and Mandarin: 1-833-674-5007 (Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
• Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu: 1-833-674-5003 (Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

First steps after diagnosis (Alzheimer Society of Canada)

First steps for families after diagnosis (Alzheimer Society of Canada)

First steps (PDF) (Alzheimer Society)

The 10 benefits of early diagnosis (Alzheimer Society of Canada

This is the second story in our four-part series on dementia and Alzheimer's disease in recognition of Alzheimer's Awareness Month. Learn about resources and programs to help people living with the disease and their caregivers lead fulfilling lives with the support of their community.

Other stories in this series:

Why dementia is not a normal part of aging and what you can do

Caring for a loved one with dementia – and for yourself

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