[Role of Neurologists in Dementia Practice]

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Geriatrics
• Public Health

Background:

• Neurologists play a key role in dementia care, collaborating within interdisciplinary teams.
• Recent advancements, including the anti-Alzheimer drug lecanemab and the Basic Act on Dementia, necessitate expanded neurologist involvement.
• A significant shortage of behavioral neurologists exists in Japan, impacting dementia management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the evolving role of neurologists in dementia practice.
• To emphasize the need for specialized skills in behavioral neurology for effective dementia management.
• To address the critical shortage of dementia specialists in Japan.

Main Methods:

• Review of the current landscape of dementia care and neurologist contributions.
• Analysis of the impact of lecanemab on neurologist involvement in dementia practice.
• Discussion of educational gaps in behavioral neurology for general neurologists.

Main Results:

• The introduction of lecanemab has increased neurologist engagement in dementia care, creating "novice" specialists.
• Inadequate training in behavioral neurology hinders effective dementia management by general neurologists.
• A critical shortage of specialized behavioral neurologists persists in Japan.

Conclusions:

• Neurologists must transition from "novice" to expert status in dementia care.
• Urgent action is required to address the shortage of behavioral neurologists.
• Enhanced education and specialized training are essential for neurologists in dementia management.