Dementia Screening

We have mentioned that about 50 percent of mild dementia goes undiagnosed, yet it is important to detect it early since some dementia types can be treated.

For instance, there is dementia treatment for types caused by thyroid problems, head injury, HIV, or Parkinsons. Dementia can cause great suffering to friends and family, as well as the patient. So detection of early dementia is important for them as well, before the disease has progressed.

The Dementia Screening Appointment

If you have observed possible symptoms of dementia, the first step, before dementia treatment, is to have a dementia screening from a physician. But be advised, that a screening may not necessarily be done just because you request it. The doctor usually will make sure the patient really does need it. I wanted my father to get fully screened, but his doctor would not do it, as he did not show actual signs of dementia. She did also caution me not to then go and try certain "tests" you can get online.

There are tests marketed by researchers and health care organizations directly to consumers. These are called “self-referred” tools and can be ordered from the internet and by phone from a testing facility, and at some pharmacies. Some of these tests involve a type of scratch and sniff exercise to test scent recognition. However, since the sense of smell can deteriorate with aging, medication or health factors, and is not necessarily always a condition of Alzheimers, this exercise would be inconclusive.

The results are then sent directly to the consumer. A physician is not directly involved. But these are not recommended because their effectiveness and accuracy have not been verified by medical authorities. (Therefore, insurance usually will not pay for them).

It is important that the patient be accompanied by a caregiver or family member when someone has a screening, because the doctor will want to confirm findings and information with them. The doctor will want to know if you have observed problems with elderly issues such as poor judgment, making decisions, trouble using simple tools like a microwave or remote control, forgetting the days of the week or month or year, forgetting to pay bills, forgetting appointments, etc. Also see our article on the Symptoms of Dementia. It has been recommended that dementia screening be conducted yearly for early detection.

When you go to the dementia screening, make sure to take a complete list of all medications, vitamins/minerals and other supplements being used. This information is vital when considering dementia treatment. A thorough physical exam will also be given. Depending on findings, tests may be given for thyroid, nutritional deficiencies, dehydration, infection and other elderly issues; as well as possible scans for brain tumor or injury.

The Mini-Cog (short for cognitive) Exam -- This is a short test that asks the patient to draw a simple clock with the hand showing a given time. The patient must also attempt to remember and repeat back, several unrelated words.

The 7-Minute Neurocognitive Screen -- This is a special test that can separate out cognitive deterioration that is due to dementia vs. normal aging. There are four areas to the test: word recall (5 words), date and time skills, verbal skills, drawing a clock. For the verbal skills, for instance, the patient may be asked to list first names or animal names.

The Mini-Mental State Exam -- This is a popular test that is given. It tests several skills including recall, simple calculations, counting backwards, attention, and language, to name a few. A specific score range will suggest dementia. Some believe the test results, however, may sometimes be inaccurate because they can the affected by factors such as the patient’s age, original language skills, and education, spatial capabilities, and factual knowledge. Some questions are directed at the family member or caregiver who has known the patient for a long period of time and spends a lot of time with them weekly. They will be asked how certain capabilities compare to 10 years ago.

It is often recommended that a baseline dementia screening be given in the early 60s age range, then annual screening every couple years. (But as I mentioned, it may not be given upon request -- only if specific signs of dementia are evident). After age 70, screening should be given yearly. If early dementia can be detected, there are more treatment options.

Also read this important information about dementia:

Global Dementia Statistics Spell Urgency -- Dementia Statistics in the 2009 World Alzheimer Report are staggering. Our easy summary explains it concisely. So you don't have to dredge through the report. Find out why this worldwide dementia organization believes dementia is becoming a global epidemic. And what can be done. We also have links to the full document if you'd like it.
Symptoms of Dementia -- Should anyone get a screening? Depends on the symptoms. So how do you know if it's maybe the real thing? You may be familiar with the obvious symptoms of dementia. But it's way more than just forgetfulness or losing keys.
Causes of Dementia -- The causes of dementia actually change the brain, sometimes irreversibly. But there are important precautions you can take. And in light of the newest urgent worldwide findings, we really need to aware of the causes and if they can affect us or our loved ones.

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