NEW statistics show that over one in four people with dementia in the North West battle their symptoms for over two years before receiving a diagnosis.

The Alzheimer’s Society are preparing to launch a Dementia Action Week running from May 16 to 22 and their research reveals confusing symptoms with old age is one of the main reasons for delay.

Accoridng to the research, 48 per cent of respondents in the North West assumed that symptoms were simply a by product of aging thus leading to a delay in accessing treatment, care and support.

The Alzheimer’s Society have today pledged their new campaign named - ‘It’s not called getting old, it’s called getting ill’ – to encourage people worried about their own or their loved ones’ memory to seek support in getting a diagnosis.

News and Star: ACTION: The charity is encouraging people to take measures to get supportACTION: The charity is encouraging people to take measures to get support

The charity has worked closely with medical experts in the field to make the diagnosis process easier, by creating a new ‘symptoms checklist’, which is available on their new online hub and highlights changes that might be due to dementia.

The charity's studies show how the symptoms of dementia, such as asking the same question repeatedly, can easily be dismissed as a sign of old age.

Penny Giles, Dementia Connect Local Services Manager for Alzheimer’s Society in Cumbria said: “Asking the same question over and over again is not called getting old, it’s called getting ill. If you’re worried for yourself or someone you love, take the first step this Dementia Action Week – come to Alzheimer’s Society for support.

“The stark findings of our survey released today show just how dangerous it can be to battle dementia symptoms alone and put off getting help.

“Yes, getting a diagnosis can be daunting, but it is worth it. More than nine in 10 people with dementia told us they benefited from getting a diagnosis – it gave them crucial access to treatment, care and support, and precious time to plan for the future.

The charity helped 64-year-old Martina Davis who lives in Carlisle who was disagnosed with a rare form of dementia called Posterior Cortical Atrophy.

Martina says: “Although it is devastating getting a diagnosis, I really would urge anyone who is unsure to see their GP straight away. If you face up to your symptoms and accept them, it can give you more control of your life. Having that diagnosis for me was a relief and meant I could plan for the future and work out a system of how to live my life.”

This Dementia Action Week, Alzheimer’s Society is urging anyone worried about themselves or someone they love to take the first step and contact the charity for support. Visit their website or call 0333 150 3456.

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