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Sunday, May 26, 2013 Dementia - an acquired impairment in mental
and functional capabilities - is common in the elderly. It is
often progressive and may eventually result in nursing home
placement due to incapacitation. Doctors need to make an
accurate and early diagnosis of dementia to provide the patient
the best treatment options. About 5 to 15 percent of people 65
and older suffer from some form of dementia - the most common of
which is Alzheimer's disease. As people age, the risk of
dementia increases. Moderate to severe dementia is found in
three percent of those aged 65 to 74 and in 30 percent of those
85 and older. Dementia accounts for a growing share of health
care expenses and medical resources. Decline in thinking
abilities often requires increased supervision and support
systems - usually at a great expense.