The Use Of The Cognitive Status Examination In Detecting Cognitive Impairment In Elderly People (original) (raw)

Dementia is a growing social problem in Australia because as the population ages, the incidence of dementia increases. While the prevalence rates are only about 1 % at age 65, they double every five years until by 85 years of age the rate is over 24%. It is expected that by the year 2030, the number of elderly people with dementia will increase by 200%. Dementia is easily recognized in its advanced stages but can be overlooked in the early phase. Family members, care-givers and even the treating medical practitioner may mistakenly attribute the early decline in mental function to the normal aging process. A diagnostic instrument that is easy to administer and score yet is sensitive and specific to the detection of cognitive impairment in the elderly may prove to be of significant benefit to clinicians and assist care-givers and family members in treatment decisions, accommodation requirements and the timely provision of a range of support services. This study investigates the use of...