Why it's so important to get an early dementia diagnosis

It can help those affected by the condition and their families understand and manage their symptoms more effectively, as CAMILLA FOSTER discovers

- CAMILLA FOSTER

OSCAR-WINNING actress and national treasure Dame Judi Dench has announced her support for a new campaign and petition urging the Government to ensure earlier dementia diagnoses through the NHS.

The Dementia Unseen campaign comes after the NHS target to ensure 66.7% of people with dementia receive a diagnosis was removed from NHS planning guidance for 2025-26.

Alzheimer's Research UK reports that, in some regions of England, patients can wait up to a year for a diagnosis after referral and highlights that those living in the most deprived areas often face even longer delays.

Here are five reasons why an early diagnosis is so important...

1. Helps improve quality of life