Older Americans Have Dementia Without Knowing—Experts Reveal Signs to Watch

Key Points:

• A Yale University study found that 67% of older Americans underreport having a dementia diagnosis, a rate significantly higher than underreporting for other conditions like arthritis, diabetes, and depression.
• Experts highlight that early signs of dementia can be subtle and easily mistaken for normal aging, leading to missed or delayed diagnoses, especially in primary care settings with limited time and competing priorities.
• Patient awareness and acceptance of a dementia diagnosis are often lacking due to stigma, unclear communication, or reluctance, which can hinder timely planning and treatment.
• Personal experience from Dr. Malaz Boustani illustrates how even healthcare professionals can miss early dementia signs, emphasizing the need to assess patients' actual ability to manage complex treatments safely.
• Improved early detection in primary care is crucial, as earlier diagnosis allows for better patient safety, planning, and access to treatments that are more effective in mild cognitive impairment and mild dementia stages.