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Updated: Aug 10, 2026

Assessment of Age-related Changes in Cognitive Functions Using EmoCogMeter, a Novel Tablet-computer Based Approach
Published on: February 14, 2014
Life-span perspective of personality in dementia
1Department of Nursing, Wilkes University, Wilkes-Barre, PA., USA.
Purpose:
To propose an alternative view of personality change in dementia by presenting existing evidence for the continuity of personality.
Significance:
As the population continues to age, dementing illnesses will account for a greater proportion of morbidity and mortality; the care of these people will have a significant effect on the health care system.
Organizing Framework:
Life-span perspective of personality continuity. SCOPE METHOD: Review of current literature on personality in dementia using Medline, 1980-1994; CINAHL, 1990-1994; and Psych Lit., 1980-1994.
Findings:
Although there are systematic shifts in personality with dementia, individuals tend to maintain their unique pattern of premorbid personality traits.
Conclusions:
The personalities of dementia patients seem to reflect adaptive patterns that served them in the past.
Implications:
Use of a life-span perspective can enhance individualized care for demented patients and advance theory development.
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