19/05/2026
It’s Dementia Action Week, and this year the Alzheimer's Society is focusing on a powerful message: taking action to get a diagnosis. Shockingly, around 1 in 3 people living with dementia in the UK do not have a formal diagnosis.
Many people avoid talking about memory loss because it feels scary, or they assume it's just a normal part of getting older. But getting a diagnosis is a positive step. In fact, 91% of people affected say there are clear benefits to getting a diagnosis, as it unlocks the support, care, and treatments needed to live well.
What are the signs to look out for?
It's not just about forgetting where the car keys are. Look out for these common early signs in yourself or a loved one:
Memory loss that disrupts daily life: Forgetting recent events, repeating the same questions, or relying heavily on sticky notes for things they used to remember easily.
Confusion with time or place: Losing track of dates, seasons, or the passage of time.
Difficulty completing familiar tasks: Struggling to follow a recipe they have used for years or forgetting the rules of a favorite card game.
Changes in mood or personality: Becoming easily upset, anxious, or suspicious in environments where they are out of their comfort zone.
Why take action early?
While there is currently no cure for dementia, getting an early diagnosis makes a massive difference because it allows you to:
Access treatments: Some medications and therapies can help manage symptoms or slow down their progression.
Unlock support: It opens doors to local social workers, support groups, and specialist charities across Bristol.
Plan for the future: It gives you and your family the time to make important decisions about care, finances, and legal matters on your own terms.
