Abstract
General practitioners and community nurses were asked to rate the likelihood of dementia for each of their elderly patients. Cases of dementia were identified by research psychiatrists using the Cambridge mental disorders of the elderly examination (CAMDEX), a new structured diagnostic interview. General practitioners correctly identified dementia as at least a possibility in 121 of the 208 cases found. Nevertheless, they mistakenly rated as demented several patients suffering from functional psychiatric disorders, in particular depression. Community nurses correctly identified dementia as at least a possibility in 64 of the 74 demented patients known to them, but they incorrectly suspected dementia in a greater proportion of instances. Both general practitioners and families appeared to have low expectations of what general practice has to offer demented elderly people. General practitioners should take the initiative in diagnosing dementia in very elderly patients who show signs of the condition. In some cases it may be secondary to treatable disorders, and in others all that may be required are understanding, support, and advice to families.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
