Diagnosing dementia. Current clinical concepts

Increasing numbers of Americans who live to advanced age are at risk for dementia. Despite an array of sophisticated assessment measures, a specific diagnostic test is lacking for dementia and it has been found to be both under- and overdiagnosed. Misdiagnosis is of concern because treatable conditions that mimic dementia may go untreated, and families of those who lack correct diagnosis are unable to properly plan for subsequent care needs. Well-informed nurses can serve important roles by sharing accurate information within the community, supporting and educating families during the diagnostic process, and referring families to appropriate resources.