Why you should read this article:

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To understand the similarities between the early symptoms of dementia and those of other healthcare conditions

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To recognise some of the challenges in making an accurate and timely diagnosis of dementia

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To learn why receiving a timely diagnosis can enhance access to treatment for people with dementia

Receiving a timely and accurate diagnosis of dementia is essential to enable people to access vital treatment and support, reduce the risk of premature deterioration, and empower families to live well and plan. However, there are several challenges associated with obtaining a timely diagnosis, which have been exacerbated by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This article outlines some of these challenges, describes the similarities between early symptoms of dementia and other health conditions and details the dementia diagnosis pathway in primary care. The authors use a case study to demonstrate this pathway.