The purpose of this paper is to outline the steps involved in the diagnosis of dementia and to promote early diagnosis. This paper may be helpful to people who have concerns about dementia or to those who are concerned about their family members or friends. The early symptoms of dementia can include memory problems, difficulties in word finding and thinking processes, changes in personality or behaviour, a lack of initiative or changes in day to day function at home, at work or in taking care of oneself. This paper does not include detailed information about all of these warning signs, so it is recommended that you seek other sources of information 1 . If you notice signs in yourself or in a family member or friend, it is important to seek medical help to determine the cause and significance of these symptoms.