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Formulating a Clinical Practice Care Plan for the Diagnosis and Assessment of Alzheimer's Disease

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  07 November 2014

Warachal Eileen Faison
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Abstract

Alzheimer's disease is a devastating neurological disorder characterized by cognitive deficits, functional impairment, and often troublesome behavioral symptoms. Unfortunately, Alzheimer's disease can be difficult to diagnose at early and even moderate stages of the disease. This article outlines simple, efficient strategies for identifying patients with potential dementia. The discussion focuses on the key components of a comprehensive assessment plan, which typically involves taking the patient's history, as well as conducting cognitive testing, laboratory testing, neurologic examination, and neuroimaging to evaluate patients for Alzheimer's disease. Finally, opportunities for the improvement of care are discussed, with an emphasis on overcoming barriers to diagnosis such as time limitations and reimbursement issues.

Type
Academic Supplement
Information
CNS Spectrums , Volume 10 , Issue S18: Alzheimer's Disease Pathways to Practice: Assessing Diagnosis and Outcome Measures , November 2005 , pp. 10 - 12
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2005

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