Timely Diagnosis of Dementia: Results of the Bavarian Dementia Survey (BayDem)

Abstract

Background In many cases, people with dementia (PWD) receive their first diagnosis at an advanced stage of the disease. A timely diagnosis, however, is crucial for the utilization of therapies and support services for PWD and their caregivers. So far, only a few international studies have analysed predictors of the time lapse between the first perceived symptoms and diagnosis. The aim of this study was to assess the time span from the first symptoms of dementia until the first dementia diagnosis and to identify predictors of a timely diagnosis. Methods The Bavarian Dementia Survey (BayDem) is a multi-centre, longitudinal study at 3 different sites in Bavaria, Germany. Participants were PWD as defined by ICD-10 and their informal caregivers. Data was collected by standardized face-to-face interviews in cooperation with local actors. For the analysis of potential sociodemographic predictors of a timely diagnosis within 9 months after the perception of the first symptoms, binary logistic regressions were used. Results The median length from the perception of the first symptoms until diagnosis was 16 months. Predictors of a timely diagnosis for male PWD were age at the time of the first perceived symptoms and education. There was no association between a timely diagnosis and the place of residence or living situation of the PWD. Conclusions Diagnosis of dementia is often made with a huge delay. Therefore, it is necessary to enhance structured access routes to a timely diagnosis in primary care.