The Detection of Dementia in the Primary Care Setting

Abstract

THE RECOGNITION of dementia by primary care physicians is thought to be poor. Reported rates of overlooked dementia are between 35% and more than 90%.^1-5 Nevertheless, standards of care suggest physicians should initiate an early search for reversible causes of dementia, and some research^6,7 suggests that there is a benefit to early intervention with cholinesterase inhibitors. Most research concerning the recognition of dementia within the United States has been done in academic centers, yet most patients receive their care in a private practice setting.