Diagnosis survey results

In October 2011 the Alzheimer Society commissioned a nationally representative online survey to determine how long people wait after noticing symptoms before seeing a doctor; their reasons for not seeking a diagnosis and their awareness of the benefits of an early diagnosis.

958 Canadian caregivers of people living with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia responded to the survey. The survey focused on their knowledge of the warning signs of dementia and their willingness to seek a diagnosis.

The survey found that:

• Low awareness of the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia causes a delay in diagnosis and a subsequent treatment gap for people with dementia.
• Three quarters of survey respondents wished they had known sooner.
• Memory loss continues to be the most frequently mentioned symptom, but others symptoms are also significant.
• Family doctors play an integral role in early diagnosis.
• Alzheimer Society is a key support for people with dementia and their caregivers.

Check out the Fact Sheet: Early Diagnosis Survey for more information about this survey.