Many Senior Citizens with Memory Loss, Dementia Never Get Tested

Researchers have published a study in the journal Neurology that reports senior citizens are very unlikely to be tested for dementia unless the condition has visibly disrupted their daily life. In the study, 856 elderly individuals were evaluated for dementia, while primary caretakers were interviewed regarding the individual’s interaction with health-care professionals. Out of the 297 participants who met the criteria for dementia, only 45 percent had consulted a professional about their memory problems. Of those who had mild memory problems below that of dementia, only 5 percent had been tested. Those with normal memory and cognition reported that 1 percent had been tested. Participants were more likely to be tested when spouses raised concerns about their behavior, but generally testing was only sought when symptoms were heavily demonstrated.  “Early evaluation and identification of people with dementia may help them receive care earlier. It can help families make plans for care, help with day-to-day tasks, including observed medication administration, and watch for future problems that can occur. In some instances, these interventions could substantially improve the person’s quality of life,” said the author. The study’s data was collected before dementia-testing became covered by Medicare in 2011.  To learn more about this study, click here.