Do Most Cases Of Dementia Go Undiagnosed?
Most Americans with dementia are undiagnosed, which shows how important it is to screen and assess seniors for the disease, researchers say.
New research from a nationwide survey of about 6 million Americans aged 65 and older shows that 91% of people with cognitive impairment consistent with dementia didn’t have a formal medical diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
HealthDay News’ recent article reports that when other people – generally, family members – responded to the survey, the rate fell to around 75%, which is still significant. That’s according to the study’s co-author Sheria Robinson-Lane, a gerontologist at the University of Michigan School of Nursing, in Ann Arbor.
Rates of non-diagnosis varied by race, gender and education. As an example, Black seniors had a higher rate (93%) than other racial groups, according to the report published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease.
“There is a large disparity in dementia-related treatment and diagnosis among Black older adults” who receive later diagnoses compared to other groups, Robinson-Lane stated.
Men, at 99.7%, were more likely to report no diagnosis than women (90.2%). Those without high school graduation showed higher non-diagnosis rates (93.5%) than those with at least a high school education (91%).
Higher education correlates with greater wealth and resource access affecting both dementia risk and progression, Robinson-Lane noted. Education level may also influence cognitive test results.
Robinson-Lane emphasized that findings are particularly relevant now because people with dementia face higher COVID-19 hospitalization and death risks. COVID-19 also causes lasting neurological impacts in some individuals, potentially increasing dementia risk. Routine dementia screening isn’t standard in annual senior wellness visits.
“Now more than ever, these routine screenings and assessments are really critical,” Robinson-Lane stated.
Co-author Ryan McGrath, an assistant professor at North Dakota State University, stressed that evaluating seniors’ cognitive skills is essential. “We recommend that health care providers screen for low cognitive functioning during routine health assessments, when possible. A telemedicine option may reduce clinic time and expand reach,” McGrath suggested.
If you have a senior loved one who is suffering from cognitive impairment, you may want to consult with an attorney about whether you need a guardianship or other legal assistance.
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