How long for brain scan results

[thirdistheonewiththehairychest]

Hi everyone,
My dad is having his brain scan on Tuesday (we anticipate a potential diagnosis of vascular dementia). I was wondering how long he is likely to have to wait before he hears the result of the scan?

I think my DM had to wait over a month although it's a bit unclear as really unhelpful my they called her and asked her to go to the appointment for the results and she didn't tell anyone else and went alone.

Oh that's definitely much longer than I had thought!

We waited about 2 months. They were inconclusive so unless there is significant visible damage you might find it still takes a while to get a formal diagnosis.

Aw man. The waiting is so hard. We all just want answers 😢

It is a long time but how we looked on it was that they usually have been assessed before the scan and would have needed some significant evidence before referral.

Often the diagnosis can just be a formality

You also don't need a diagnosis to apply for things like Attendance Allowance as it's based in needs rather than a diagnosis.

My MIL waited 5 months for a memory clinic appointment. She was told the results of the scan then and a diagnosis the next day. She has mixed dementia. They gave a referral to local dementia charities and she is trying medication. No idea what happens now.

No idea what happens now.

Sadly not a lot. It's up to the family to sort out things like a Care Needs Assessment and arrange support, things like a cleaner and a gardener. That's if the family are capable and willing.

As far as the authorities are concerned though they'll just assume everything is fine.

It sounds like it varies quite a lot then depending on outcome? Somewhere between one day and two months...

Yes as with all things health related it can vary depending on where you live

I'm not sure as I'm not mainland UK, but we had a waiting list of over 6 months at one point. But the memory clinic could signpost him to the services he needs anyway if they strongly suspect vascular dementia. If they suspect vascular he won't be able to take memory medication for this anyway, but they will recommend lifestyle changes and encourage him to look after his health (blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar etc). There may be support groups you can both join in your local area. Best of luck o hope you aren't waiting too long 💐

Are you in touch with your local Carer's Hub too? We found them to be a great help when FIL finally agreed that he was on his knees and would accept help.