Early Diagnosis: Our Members Share Their Experiences
Early Diagnosis: Our Members Share Their Experiences
For World Alzheimer’s Day 2026, we’re shining a light on the difference an early diagnosis of dementia can make.
A diagnosis can bring a range of emotions as well as uncertainty and questions about what comes next. It can also bring greater understanding, access to support and the opportunity to plan for the future.
We asked Dementia NI members Pat, Martin and Graham to share what diagnosis meant to them, what they learned along the way and what they would say to someone who is experiencing symptoms.
Pat: “I finally knew what I was working with”
Before her diagnosis, Pat Cullinan, 65 and from Ballymena, knew something was happening but didn’t have an explanation.
“Getting a diagnosis gave me a sense of relief because I finally knew what I was working with.”
For Pat, getting a diagnosis of dementia with Lewy bodies early meant she could begin to understand her situation and find out what support was available. Following her diagnosis, Pat went online and discovered Dementia NI.
She believes an early diagnosis can give people the opportunity to continue doing the things that matter to them.
“When your dementia is mild to moderate, you can still achieve things, enjoy life and make the most of your time.”
Finding support was an important part of Pat’s experience. Having the information she needed helped her focus on what was important and continue to enjoy life.
Martin: “There is still hope with an early diagnosis”
Martin Murtagh, from Belfast, recognised that something wasn’t right and spoke to his GP. Having experienced dementia within his family, he wanted to find out what was happening.
He pushed for a scan and, although he was nervous, he was supported through the process before being diagnosed at the age of 63.
“Getting an early diagnosis saved my life.”
For Martin, telling his family was another important step. Once he shared what was happening with his sons, he says it was a weight off his mind.
He also found support through Dementia NI, becoming involved in Empowerment Groups where he could talk openly with other people living with dementia.
Today, ten years on from his diagnosis, Martin uses his own experience to support others who are newly diagnosed. He regularly speaks with new members and shares a cup of tea with people who are worried about what comes next, reassuring them that there is support available.
“There is light at the end of the tunnel. There is still hope with an early diagnosis.”
Graham: "I use my experience to help others"
Although receiving a dementia diagnosis initially caused Graham, from Derry, to feel a sense of uncertainty, over time it brought him clarity and a sense of direction.
“Receiving my dementia diagnosis has been life-changing. At first, it was difficult to accept and brought uncertainty about the future.
“But over time, I have learned that a diagnosis does not define who I am or what I can still achieve. It has encouraged me to value each day, spend more time with the people I love, speak openly about dementia, and use my experience to help others.
“Being involved with Dementia NI has also given me a voice, a sense of purpose, and the opportunity to make a difference.”
Graham's experience shows how for some people, a diagnosis can be the beginning of a new chapter. Knowing what you are dealing with can help you to access support and find ways to continue doing the things that matter to you.
A diagnosis can be a starting point
Everyone’s experience of diagnosis is different. For Pat, Martin and Graham, having a diagnosis helped them understand what was happening, find support and make decisions about what came next.
As Graham says, a diagnosis doesn’t define someone or change who they are. People living with dementia continue to make choices, contribute and have a say in their lives.
Speak to your GP
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms, speaking to your GP can be an important first step.
Getting a diagnosis can help you understand what’s happening and access the right information and support.
A more consistent diagnosis experience
Everyone across NI should have the opportunity to experience the sense of clarity and support following a diagnosis.
That's why Dementia NI's Member Forum is calling for greater consistency in the dementia diagnosis experience, so that everyone receives the same information, support and resources. Recently, our Member Forum met with the Commissioner for Older People, Siobhan Casey, to discuss their campaign and share their experiences of the dementia diagnosis process.
Read more about the Member Forum's campaign and its meeting with the Commissioner here.