What Scans Are Used To Diagnose Dementia?

What scans are used to diagnose dementia? Learn how CT, MRI and PET scans may help doctors assess brain changes and support diagnosis.

The Dementia category is Old Age Plan’s central knowledge hub for understanding dementia, recognising symptoms, navigating diagnosis, exploring treatment options, planning future care and supporting people living with dementia. It brings together practical, evidence-based information to help Australian individuals, families and carers make informed decisions throughout every stage of the dementia journey.
This category includes guidance on understanding different types of dementia, early signs and cognitive changes, diagnosis and assessment, treatment and symptom management, communication, risk reduction, daily care, planning ahead and accessing aged care support. Each subcategory explores a specific aspect of dementia while contributing to a complete, structured library of information designed to answer the questions families commonly face.
Whether you’re seeking information after a recent diagnosis, supporting someone living with dementia or planning for future care needs, this category provides a trusted starting point to explore the full range of dementia topics through clear, practical and Australian-focused guidance.

What scans are used to diagnose dementia? Learn how CT, MRI and PET scans may help doctors assess brain changes and support diagnosis.

Who should you tell after a dementia diagnosis? Learn who may need to know, what information matters and how to balance privacy with support and planning.

Can blood tests detect dementia? Learn what blood tests can reveal, what they cannot confirm and how they support dementia assessment.

How long does a dementia diagnosis take? Learn what affects diagnosis timelines, what delays may occur and what families can do while waiting.

Can a GP diagnose dementia in Australia? Learn what a GP can assess, what tests they may arrange and when specialist review may be needed.

Should you tell someone they have dementia? Learn when disclosure may help, how to approach the conversation and how to balance honesty, dignity and support.

What questions should you ask after a dementia diagnosis? Learn which questions matter most about treatment, safety, legal planning and future care decisions.

Should you get a second opinion after a dementia diagnosis? Learn when further assessment may help, what questions to ask and how to make more confident decisions.

Can dementia be diagnosed early? Learn when memory or thinking changes may need assessment, what early diagnosis means and why acting early may preserve options.

Can dementia be misdiagnosed? Learn what conditions can mimic dementia, warning signs a diagnosis may need review and when a second opinion may help.