Is it Dementia?

There is no definitive test for dementia.  You cannot give a sample of blood (or urine) and be diagnosed with dementia.  The only 100% guaranteed proof is by post-mortem.  So anyone who claims that they have a 'test' that you can complete for an answer is not being honest.  And that applies very especially to online internet 'tests'.

There are a number of symptoms that can point to dementia, although it is important to remember that they can be the result of other medical (and non-medical) conditions.   Some are:

• memory loss
• navigation
• concentration
• using incorrect words
• poor understanding
• learning difficulties
• confusion
• perception, judging distance
• co-ordination
• psychological changes e.g. aggression, irritability, inappropriate responses

Sometimes, however, other conditions can produce the same effect.  For example, UTI (Urinary Tract Infection) can cause confusion.  Degrading eyesight can result in errors judging distance.  Worry and anxiety can cause poor concentration.  TIAs (Transient Ischaemic Attack) are often called 'mini-strokes' and could cause temporary numbness, difficulty speaking or understanding.

And just because you are a bit forgetful does not mean you have dementia... 

In order to arrive at a diagnosis of dementia, a close look at all of a persons issues is required as well as consideration to how these might have changed over time.  Other causes (such as UTI) need to be eliminated. 

Determination of whether or not someone has dementia needs to be made by qualified professionals in conjunction with those who know the person best.