Evaluation of Dementia

Abstract

Dementia is the clinical syndrome characterized by acquired losses of cognitive and emotional abilities severe enough to interfere with daily functioning and the quality of life. The term does not imply a specific cause or pathologic process. More than 55 illnesses, some nonprogressive, can cause dementia.¹ It occurs primarily late in life; the prevalence is about 1 percent at the age of 60 years and doubles every five years, to reach 30 to 50 percent by the age of 85.^2,3 Because all types of dementia are treatable, at least with psychosocial interventions, accurate diagnosis is essential to determine the . . .