Canadians ignoring early warning signs of dementia

Many Canadians dismiss early signs of dementia as just a normal part of aging and wait far too long before having a doctor check out the symptoms, according to a report by the Alzheimer Society of Canada.

An online survey of caregivers found nearly half said their loved ones had lived a year or more with symptoms of Alzheimer's or another form of dementia before seeing a doctor.

The report finds that wait resulted in a huge treatment gap caused by the delay in getting information about medications, support services and better disease management.

Anyone who believes their relative may be suffering from the initial signs of dementia, which can include a loss of memory, attention or orientation, is being advised to contact a doctor.