Prolonged diagnostic delays for dementia causing cognitive decline without treatment or support planning

Patients experiencing cognitive decline symptoms face agonizing waits for dementia diagnosis, during which they continue deteriorating without access to early interventions, treatment options, or time to plan their affairs. Current healthcare systems lack expedited diagnostic pathways, leaving people in limbo—unable to confirm their condition, access medications that could slow progression, or make critical life decisions while still capable. Families and patients suffer psychological distress and functional decline during these diagnostic gaps.