Dementia, or major neurocognitive disorder, is defined as a decline in one or more cognitive domains that causes impairment in everyday function. Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia in the United States, occurring among an estimated 6.9 million adults aged 65 years or older. This article discusses the latest findings on prevention of cognitive decline. It also discusses dementia screening, diagnosis, and treatment as well as quality of life for persons with dementia and their caregivers.
Use this to:
- Consult a geriatrician to discuss his or her approach to a patient who presents with cognitive symptoms that are compatible with dementia.
- Ask a geriatrician when they recommend that a primary care physician refer patients with suspected dementia to a specialist. What actions or tests are helpful before referral?
- Practice administering the Mini-Mental State Examination, and review how to interpret the results.
- Review the appropriate prescription of nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic interventions for patients with dementia.
- Take the quiz that accompanies the article to assess your knowledge, and then review the correct answers.
In the Clinic is a feature of Annals of Internal Medicine which includes practical reviews about the management of common clinical conditions.
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