Caregiver-related barriers to dementia diagnosis and treatment: a prospective observational study in caregivers of patients under health board evaluation

Some countries leave the care of individuals with dementia to their relatives. Informal caregivers struggle with the many burdens associated with caregiving. This situation affects the quality of care that patients receive. This study investigates reasons for delays in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with possible dementia and assesses whether patients were brought for an examination following the removal of health care access barriers. Twenty-eight patients referred for preliminary health board evaluation, who had not previously received a dementia diagnosis, were included. Patient attendance at scheduled appointments was analyzed. Despite being brought to the Health Board appointment, 75% of patients were not taken to the outpatient clinic for diagnosis and treatment. Caregiver-related delays may serve as a potential red flag warranting further assessment for neglect. These findings may guide public health strategies to prevent neglect and improve care quality.