Large Language Models: A Paradigm Shift for Dementia Diagnosis and Care

Dementia poses major challenges to healthcare worldwide. Traditional diagnostics rely on lengthy assessments, and access to specialist clinicians is limited. Large language models (LLMs), like Generative Pre-trained Transformer 4 (GPT-4) present new avenues for enhancing dementia diagnosis and care through advanced language processing. Whilst research into their applications is in its infancy, LLMs can harness vast datasets and powerful algorithms, with significant potential to enhance diagnostic accuracy in dementia, monitor symptom progression, and provide personalised care recommendations. While dementia serves as the primary example, the ethical and practical considerations discussed are applicable to the wider use of LLMs across different areas of medicine. This review explores the prospect of LLMs transforming dementia management and addresses the ethical and practical considerations involved.