Awareness & recognition of significant symptoms

This stage incorporates recognition of dementia signs and symptoms requiring consideration for further investigation, assessment, diagnosis and support.

In this stage the primary focus is on:

• the benefits of early diagnosis
• understanding and responding to the signs and symptoms of dementia
• acknowledging dementia as a chronic, progressive and terminal disease
• timely recognition and referral for further specialist investigation
• maintaining social connection and accessing community care and support. ^[1]

When patient or family raise concerns about memory / cognition, do not dismiss as "old age".

Be alert to cognitive decline in older patients especially those aged 75+. Routinely ask about difficulties with memory. ^[2]