How do you find out if you have dementia?

Older people in particular often worry about developing dementia if they notice increasing forgetfulness or problems with their sense of orientation. However, this does not necessarily mean dementia as these symptoms can also be linked to stress, depression, or other illnesses such as circulatory disorders or thyroid disease. It is therefore important to speak to your general practitioner immediately if you experience any such signs or if you have concerns. If necessary, they will refer you to a specialist in psychiatry or neurology. There you will undergo examinations and receive a clear diagnosis. In some regions, special outpatient clinics or hospitals also carry out dementia diagnostics. If you live in such a region, your general practitioner can give you a referral. You can find more information on this under the menu item Where to get a diagnosis?

Sometimes, receiving a diagnosis can take time. Often the causes of symptoms cannot be determined immediately after the first examination. It is therefore important to discuss memory problems or other possible signs of dementia with your general practitioner as soon as possible. In most cases, your health insurance will cover the costs of such an examination. Depending on your health insurance, you may have to pay a small contribution, as with all examinations.

If you visit an elective doctor, be sure to ask about the costs in advance. If you submit the invoice to your health insurance provider, you will usually be reimbursed for part of the costs.

The examination may include several steps:

• A medical interview, with the option of involving your relatives if you wish
• A review of previous blood test results
• A physical check-up, including blood pressure measurement, heart examination, and an ECG
• Memory and cognitive tests
• A brain scan, usually by MRI

Depending on the impairment, other examinations may also be carried out, such as an ultrasound of the neck vessels.