1. Dementia-like Symptoms
Dementia and Aging
There are approximately 5.1 million Americans 65 years and older with dementia. 1 in 8 persons 65 and over and nearly 50% of all persons over the age of 85 have some type of dementia. It is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States and the third most expensive disease after cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Diagnostic Approach
Memory Concern Affecting Daily Life
(Positive Screen)
Mini-Cog and Clock Drawing Screen
Unclear or No Obvious Deficits
Cognitive Deficit Present
Consider Neuropsychological Testing
Assess for Potentially Reversible Causes:
H & P
Laboratory Testing
Medication Review
Potentially Reversible Condition Present (including Depression & Delirium)
No Potentially Reversible Condition Present
No or Partial Improvement
Treat and Reassess
DEMENTIA
Reversible Causes of
Dementia-like Symptoms
D -- Drugs
E -- Emotional (Depression)
M --Metabolic (CHF, COPD, CRF)
E -- Endocrine (Hypothyroid, Hyperparathyroid)
N -- Nutrition (B-12, Malnutrition)
T -- Trauma
I -- Infection (Fungus, TB, UTI)
A-- Arterial (Vascular)
Accessed at: %20Dr.%20Cefalu.pdf
References:
Feil, D.G., MacLean, K. and D. Saltzer (2007) “Quality Indicators for the Care of Dementia in Vulnerable Elders.”JAGS(55):
Medical Knowledge Self Assessment Program (MKSAP)
National Alzheimer’s Association 2009 Facts and Figures
Aging Q3 is funded by the D.W. Reynolds Foundation