Geropsychology and neuropsychological testing: role in evaluation and treatment of patients with dementia.
Cognitive loss in the aged should be evaluated as early as possible, since some causes of impairment may be reversible. Neuropsychological testing is probably the most sensitive method of detecting early or mild dementia. On completion of the evaluation, the first meeting with the patient and family is critical in laying the groundwork for subsequent interventions. Frankness in discussing the diagnosis of dementia is advocated, as it facilitates patient self-determination and enhances confidence in the health-care provider. Interventions, including psychotherapy, are presented in a psychoeducational framework, where the aim is to provide information to the patient and/or family while monitoring and responding to emotional reactions and defenses. Conceptualizing dementia as a chronic mental illness may be helpful to the health-care provider. Although there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease or for multi-infarct dementia, treatments are available in the psychological and psychosocial domain. These have enormous potential for alleviating suffering and improving the quality of life of patients and their families, and therefore should not be overlooked.
Jutagir
R
R
Department of Geriatrics and Adult Development, Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York, NY 10029.
D000368:Aged; D003704:Dementia / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy; D005852:Geriatric Psychiatry; D006801:Humans; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests