CLINICIANS at the North East Essex Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) are raising awareness of the early signs of dementia and the importance of getting early diagnosis by their GP.

They say detecting dementia early is important as some causes of dementia are treatable and fully or partially reversible, depending on the nature of the problem.

Identifying dementia early and improving care for those with the condition remains a national priority.

According to NHS England there are almost 5,000 people living with dementia in north east Essex.

Dr Mark Roberts, Elected Member at North East Essex CCG and GP at the Tiptree Medical Centre, said: “It is important that people get an early diagnosis which opens up access to the right health and social care services.

“It is possible to live well with dementia and there is strong evidence that an early diagnosis helps someone with dementia to continue to live independently in their own home for longer.

“However if people are not diagnosed, they will not receive the support they need.”

Early signs of dementia can be mild and barely noticeable, or maybe mistaken for something else.

It can include problems with memory, finding it hard to recall words, dates, names or recent events, finding it hard to follow a conversation, difficulty in making decisions as well as forgetting time or what day of the week it is as well as increased confusion, reduced concentration, personality or behaviour changes and the loss of ability to do everyday tasks.

Visit www.nhs.uk/Conditions/dementia-guide/Pages/about-dementia.aspx.