Families hit by long waits for dementia diagnosis

Hundreds of families say they have had to wait months or even years for a dementia diagnosis for a loved one.

Such long delays have an impact on their own work, finances and mental health, a survey for the Alzheimer's Society charity reveals.

The charity is calling for a national standard that would mean someone with dementia would receive an accurate diagnosis within 18 weeks of being seen and referred by a GP.

That would put dementia on a similar footing as other major health conditions, including cancer.

Michael Fethon says his dad, Jim, waited 18 months from their initial appointment with a GP before being diagnosed.

It was a delay that took its toll on Jim - and on Michael, who eventually had to give up his job to care for his dad.

"I think my dad felt beside himself because he was experiencing symptoms. It wasn't just memory loss."

Michael says his father struggled to drive, shop and, eventually, even to walk.