{"id":3252,"date":"2023-07-27T14:51:27","date_gmt":"2023-07-27T14:51:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.dementiauk.org\/?page_id=3252"},"modified":"2026-02-13T17:09:47","modified_gmt":"2026-02-13T17:09:47","slug":"tests-for-dementia","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.dementiauk.org\/information-and-support\/specialist-diagnosis-and-support\/tests-for-dementia\/","title":{"rendered":"Tests for dementia \u2013 including Alzheimer\u2019s disease"},"content":{"rendered":"

If you, or someone you know, is showing possible symptoms <\/a>of dementia<\/a>, including Alzheimer\u2019s disease<\/a>, it is important to visit a doctor for tests. Our dementia specialist Admiral Nurses<\/a> explain the different kinds of tests that are used to assess someone for dementia, including genetic<\/a> tests, how they are undertaken, and why.<\/span><\/p>\n

The role of testing in diagnosing dementia<\/a><\/h2>\n

There are a number of reasons someone may experience dementia symptoms such as memory loss, problems with concentration and difficulties with communication<\/a>. Often, these symptoms can be caused by other physical or mental health<\/a> issues, many of which can be treated or managed, so it is important to see a GP to rule these out.<\/p>\n

To establish whether someone has dementia or another condition with similar symptoms, healthcare professionals use a variety of tests and assessments.<\/p>\n

If you or someone you know is waiting for an appointment or assessment, there are steps you can take in the meantime. <\/span>Learn what to do while waiting for a dementia diagnosis<\/a> to feel more prepared and supported during the process<\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

The importance of testing<\/a><\/h2>\n

Testing is crucial to establish whether someone has dementia or another condition with similar symptoms. It enables healthcare professionals to start any possible treatment as soon as possible. It also provides the person with an explanation of what is happening to them, helps them and their family members learn how to manage the symptoms and maintain quality of life, and can unlock support and financial benefits<\/a>.<\/p>\n

The benefits of early diagnosis<\/h3>\n

It is natural to feel overwhelmed by the possibility of a dementia diagnosis and put off seeing the GP, but it is important to seek advice if you are noticing symptoms. For some people, medication can slow down the progression of dementia and make the symptoms more manageable, but this is most effective if started in the early stages<\/a>, so getting a prompt diagnosis is key. Getting an early diagnosis also means you can access information and support to help with managing the condition and maintaining quality of life.<\/p>\n

Cognitive assessments<\/a><\/h2>\n

People who are experiencing symptoms of dementia will be asked to take part in tests to assess memory and thinking. These are referred to as cognitive assessments.<\/p>\n

Usually, a GP will carry out the initial cognitive assessments to determine if further testing is needed.<\/p>\n

Types of cognitive assessments<\/h3>\n

There are a number of different cognitive tests for dementia; however, a common one that is used by GPs as an initial assessment is the General Practitioner Assessment of Cognition<\/a>, also known as the GPCOG.<\/p>\n

The majority of tests are undertaken using a pen and paper and there are questions to answer, each element carries a score.<\/p>\n

The tests will give insight into a range of mental abilities including:<\/p>\n