A dementia diagnosis can feel frightening. For some people, fear of what they might hear — or the belief that nothing can be done — makes it easier to avoid asking questions. But a diagnosis is not simply a label. When it comes early enough, it can give someone more opportunity to understand what is changing, make informed choices and protect their independence for as long as possible.

September is World Alzheimer’s Month, an international campaign to raise awareness and challenge the stigma and discrimination surrounding dementia. This year's message is: “The earlier you know, the more you can do. A diagnosis matters.”

This does not mean that every forgotten name or misplaced set of keys is a sign of dementia. Changes in memory and thinking can have many possible causes, and seeking an assessment does not mean assuming the cause is dementia. Nor does it mean rushing someone towards a diagnosis before they are ready.

It means that when changes become persistent or begin to interfere with everyday life, they should not be dismissed as “just getting older”.

An accurate diagnosis can help explain the changes a person is experiencing. An assessment may identify a treatable cause or contributor, such as a medication side effect, vitamin deficiency, thyroid problem or depression — and managing it may improve the person's symptoms.

If the diagnosis is dementia, identifying the type can help the person and their family understand what to expect and explore the treatment, support and care options available.

A diagnosis does not, by itself, determine what someone can or cannot do. Particularly when dementia is identified earlier, a person may continue working, managing their responsibilities and participating fully in family and community life. Decisions about work, driving and everyday activities should be based on the person's individual abilities, safety and appropriate professional advice — not on the diagnosis alone.

This is where timing matters. When someone is diagnosed only after a crisis, important decisions may need to be made quickly and with limited input from the person themselves. An earlier diagnosis creates more time to make adjustments gradually, establish helpful strategies and participate in decisions about the future.

Rehabilitation can be an important part of living well with dementia. It is not about reversing the underlying disease. It is about identifying a person's strengths and finding practical ways to support the abilities they still have. This might include adapting routines, simplifying a task or changing an environment so that the person can continue doing more for themselves.

Support should be guided by what the person needs at that point in their life. Some people may require very little assistance following a diagnosis. Others may benefit from medication, occupational therapy, education, social activities or family-caregiver support. The purpose is not to take over, but to help the person remain capable, involved and connected.

A diagnosis may bring shock, anger or grief. Those feelings should never be minimised, and knowing does not remove every uncertainty. But not knowing can allow changes to progress without explanation, preparation or support.

Paying attention to brain health can be empowering. We do not have to wait for a crisis before starting the conversation. If you notice persistent changes in memory or thinking, speak with your doctor. You can also ask whether establishing and monitoring a cognitive baseline would be appropriate for you.

Take the next step this September

On Monday, September 21, visit Dementia Bermuda's Open House at Peace Lutheran Church on South Road, Paget, to meet our team and learn about our services. Optional cognitive screening will also be available as a supportive starting point for understanding and monitoring your brain health.

On Tuesday, September 22, join us at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute for “Ask the Experts” — an evening of practical information and discussion about diagnosis, treatment, medication, planning and living well with dementia.

• Erica Fulton is executive director of Dementia Bermuda, which provides information, education and support for individuals and families. Visitdementiabermuda.bm for event details and Dementia Bermuda's complete World Alzheimer's Month programme