Approach to the forgetful patient.
- Author:
Peng Soon YOON
1
;
Chun How OOI
1
;
Choon How HOW
2
Author Information
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords: cognitive impairment; dementia; memory clinic; neurocognitive disorder
- MeSH: Advance Care Planning; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Brain; physiopathology; Caregivers; Cognition; Cognitive Dysfunction; diagnosis; epidemiology; therapy; Cognitive Therapy; Dementia; diagnosis; epidemiology; therapy; Geriatrics; methods; Home Nursing; Humans; Interdisciplinary Communication; Memory; Middle Aged; Neuropsychological Tests; Referral and Consultation; Singapore
- From:Singapore medical journal 2018;59(3):121-125
- CountrySingapore
- Language:English
- Abstract: Singapore has an ageing population with a projected 53,000 people aged ≥ 60 years living with dementia by 2020. Primary care doctors have the opportunity to initiate early work-up for reversible causes of cognitive dysfunction, allowing identification of comorbidities and discussion of medical therapy options. Early diagnosis confers the sick role on the patient, which allays frustration and explains events and behaviour that may have strained relationships with family and friends. The patient can be encouraged to plan for future health and personal care options with a Lasting Power of Attorney and/or Advance Care Planning. Objective cognitive tests (e.g. abbreviated mental test and Mini-Mental State Examination) and brain imaging are adjuncts that help in formulating the diagnosis. Referral to a hospital memory clinic activates a multidisciplinary team approach to dementia, including clinical consultation, dementia counselling, physiotherapy sessions on gait/fall prevention, occupational therapy sessions on cognitive stimulation and caregiver training.
