The Alzheimer Café Westerkwartier will host an informational meeting titled ‘Diagnose bij dementie’ (Diagnosis of Dementia) on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at Activiteitencentrum De Schutse in Leek. Jantina Wijma and Inge Marit Hagenouw from the afdeling Geriatrie of the Martini Ziekenhuis will guide patients, families, and caregivers through the diagnostic trajectory.
In Plain English: The Clinical Takeaway
- The Diagnostic Pathway: A dementia evaluation begins with a primary care physician visit and a memory test, which may lead to specialized research, such as a brain scan, blood test, or neuropsychological research.
- Multidisciplinary Care: Specialists from hospital geriatric departments evaluate the process of how a dementia diagnosis is established and what it means for the person with dementia and their loved ones.
- Community Support: Monthly gatherings provide informal settings for patients and caregivers to access practical resources, transportation assistance, and peer shared experiences.
Unpacking the Clinical Journey: From General Practitioner to Geriatric Evaluation
According to event details reported by RTV Zulthe and inhetwesterkwartier.nl, the upcoming September session features Jantina Wijma and Inge Marit Hagenouw from the afdeling Geriatrie of the Martini Ziekenhuis. These clinicians will walk attendees through the diagnostic trajectory required to establish a diagnosis of dementia.
The clinical process initiates with a primary care consultation where a physician reviews the patient and administers a memory test. When necessary, patients are referred for further research. These subsequent steps may incorporate blood tests, neuropsychological research, and neuroimaging modalities such as a brain scan.
| Diagnostic Stage | Clinical Objective | Common Modalities |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Evaluation | Identify initial cognitive decline. | General practitioner interview, memory test. |
| Laboratory Screening | Further research into the condition. | Blood tests. |
| Advanced Assessment | Establish a diagnosis of dementia. | Neuropsychological research, brain scan, geriatric specialist review. |
The session will address the consequences of a diagnosis for daily life, allowing patients and their families to plan ahead and implement support systems.
Community Integration and Regional Accessibility in Leek
Beyond the clinical mechanics of diagnosis, the Alzheimer Café Westerkwartier focuses on the aftermath for both the diagnosed individual and their informal caregivers, referred to as mantelzorgers. The transition following a diagnostic disclosure involves adjustments to daily life.
To ensure access across the Westerkwartier region, practical barriers are addressed by local organizers. The evening event at Activiteitencentrum De Schutse (located at Oldenoert 32, Leek) runs from 19:30 to 21:00, with doors opening at 19:00. Admission is free, and the first beverage is provided by the organization. Furthermore, for attendees lacking personal transportation, Stichting Ouderenvervoer Leek offers wheelchair-accessible buses operated by volunteer drivers who provide door-to-door service. Interested participants can contact 0594 – 512334 for registration and travel coordination.
Contraindications & When to Consult a Doctor
