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Martins-Caulfield J, Mehdipanah R, Briceño EM, Chang W, Heeringa SG, Gonzales XF, Levine DA, Langa KM, Zahuranec DB, Garcia N, Morgenstern LB. Dementia Diagnosis Unawareness and Caregiver Burden in a Multi-ethnic Cohort. J Gen Intern Med 2025:10.1007/s11606-024-09333-1. [PMID: 39808391 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-024-09333-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 12/20/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous reports suggest patient and caregiver lack of awareness of dementia. Little is known about how this varies by ethnicity and how informal (family) caregiver burden is associated with knowing a dementia diagnosis. OBJECTIVE To investigate whether participants with probable dementia were aware of a diagnosis provided by a physician and how this differed among Mexican American and non-Hispanic White participants; whether having a primary care physician was associated with dementia diagnosis unawareness; and the association of dementia diagnosis unawareness with caregiver burden. METHODS This was a population-based cohort study in Nueces County, Texas. Participants who scored less than 20 on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) were classified as having probable dementia. Diagnosis unawareness was defined as participants with probable dementia who had not been told that diagnosis by a healthcare provider. Logistic regression models examined the association of ethnicity and dementia diagnosis unawareness. A negative binomial regression was used to assess the association of dementia diagnosis unawareness and caregiver burden. RESULTS Eighty-one percent of eligible participants were not aware of a dementia diagnosis. Mexican American participants (MAP) were more likely to be unaware of a diagnosis (85%, 95% CI 81-89%) than non-Hispanic white participants (NHWP) (68%, 95% CI 58-75%). Only 6.6% of the participants with probable dementia had no primary care provider, with no observed association between diagnosis unawareness and lack of primary care. Diagnosis unawareness was not associated with caregiver burden (IRR = 0.93, 95% CI 0.77-1.14) but was associated with lower MoCA score (IRR = 0.98, 95% CI 0.96-1.00) and greater physical impairment (IRR = 1.06, 95% CI 1.03-1.10). CONCLUSION Dementia diagnosis unawareness was very high in this community. MAPs are more likely to be unaware of a diagnosis than NHWPs. Lack of access to primary care and caregiver burden were not associated with dementia diagnosis unawareness. TRIAL REGISTRATION Study registered at clinicaltrials.gov NCT03403257.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Roshanak Mehdipanah
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Emily M Briceño
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Wen Chang
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Steven G Heeringa
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Xavier F Gonzales
- Department of Life Sciences, Texas A&M University, Corpus Christi, TX, USA
| | - Deborah A Levine
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Kenneth M Langa
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Darin B Zahuranec
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Nelda Garcia
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Lewis B Morgenstern
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Center for Social Epidemiology and Population Health, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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2
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Armstrong MJ, Bedenfield N, Rosselli M, Curiel Cid RE, Kitaigorodsky M, Galvin JE, Lachner C, Grant Smith A, de Los Ángeles Ortega M, Mohiuddin Y, Shatzer J, Marasco D, Willis D, Bylund CL. Best Practices for Communicating a Diagnosis of Dementia: Results of a Multi-Stakeholder Modified Delphi Consensus Process. Neurol Clin Pract 2024; 14:e200223. [PMID: 38152063 PMCID: PMC10750429 DOI: 10.1212/cpj.0000000000200223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives Many individuals with dementia and their families report not receiving a dementia diagnosis. Previously published standards for delivering a dementia diagnosis are now more than 10 years old and were developed without patient and caregiver input. The objective of this study was to identify best practices for delivering a diagnosis of dementia using existing literature, involvement of diverse stakeholders, and consensus building through a formal modified Delphi approach. Methods We convened a multi-stakeholder working group including a patient, caregivers, Alzheimer's Association staff, and clinicians from diverse backgrounds. The panel used the American Academy of Neurology process for recommendation development, consisting of a half-day workshop and 3 rounds of anonymous modified Delphi voting to achieve consensus. Results The working group convened from May 2022 through January 2023. The group chose to focus statements on a limited number of best practices that can be applied across clinic types. Seven best practice statements achieved consensus after a maximum of 3 rounds of voting. These included the following: (1) Clinicians must show compassion and empathy when delivering a diagnosis of dementia (level A). During dementia diagnosis disclosure, clinicians should (2) ask regarding diagnosis preferences, (3) instill realistic hope, (4) provide practical strategies, (5) provide education and connections to high-quality resources, (6) connect caregivers to support resources, and (7) provide written summaries of the diagnoses, plan, and relevant resources (each level B). Discussion Clinicians need to customize discussion of a dementia diagnosis for individual patients and their caregivers. These 7 best practices provide a diagnosis communication framework that can be implemented across varied clinical settings. Additional strategies, such as using optimal general communication approaches, are also important for dementia diagnosis discussions. Thoughtful application of these best practices is particularly important when caring for individuals from underrepresented communities. Further improving communication regarding dementia diagnoses will require health system changes (e.g., for sufficient time), improved access to specialty dementia care, and clinician training for delivering difficult diagnoses. More research is needed to identify culturally sensitive approaches to discussing dementia diagnoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa J Armstrong
- Department of Neurology (MJA, NB, YM), University of Florida College of Medicine; UF Health Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases (MJA, NB, YM), Gainesville; Department of Psychology (MR), Florida Atlantic University, Davie; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (RECC), University of Miami Miller School of Medicine; FL Neuro-Health (MK), Miami; Comprehensive Center for Brain Health (JEG), Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Boca Raton; Department of Neurology (CL); Department of Psychiatry and Psychology (CL), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville; Byrd Alzheimer's Institute (AGS); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences (AGS), Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa; Louis and Anne Green Memory and Wellness Center (MÁO), Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton; Alzheimer's Association (JS, DM), Florida Region, Clearwater; Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics (CLB), University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL; and [N/A - caregiver representative] (DW)
| | - Noheli Bedenfield
- Department of Neurology (MJA, NB, YM), University of Florida College of Medicine; UF Health Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases (MJA, NB, YM), Gainesville; Department of Psychology (MR), Florida Atlantic University, Davie; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (RECC), University of Miami Miller School of Medicine; FL Neuro-Health (MK), Miami; Comprehensive Center for Brain Health (JEG), Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Boca Raton; Department of Neurology (CL); Department of Psychiatry and Psychology (CL), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville; Byrd Alzheimer's Institute (AGS); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences (AGS), Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa; Louis and Anne Green Memory and Wellness Center (MÁO), Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton; Alzheimer's Association (JS, DM), Florida Region, Clearwater; Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics (CLB), University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL; and [N/A - caregiver representative] (DW)
| | - Monica Rosselli
- Department of Neurology (MJA, NB, YM), University of Florida College of Medicine; UF Health Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases (MJA, NB, YM), Gainesville; Department of Psychology (MR), Florida Atlantic University, Davie; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (RECC), University of Miami Miller School of Medicine; FL Neuro-Health (MK), Miami; Comprehensive Center for Brain Health (JEG), Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Boca Raton; Department of Neurology (CL); Department of Psychiatry and Psychology (CL), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville; Byrd Alzheimer's Institute (AGS); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences (AGS), Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa; Louis and Anne Green Memory and Wellness Center (MÁO), Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton; Alzheimer's Association (JS, DM), Florida Region, Clearwater; Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics (CLB), University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL; and [N/A - caregiver representative] (DW)
| | - Rosie E Curiel Cid
- Department of Neurology (MJA, NB, YM), University of Florida College of Medicine; UF Health Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases (MJA, NB, YM), Gainesville; Department of Psychology (MR), Florida Atlantic University, Davie; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (RECC), University of Miami Miller School of Medicine; FL Neuro-Health (MK), Miami; Comprehensive Center for Brain Health (JEG), Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Boca Raton; Department of Neurology (CL); Department of Psychiatry and Psychology (CL), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville; Byrd Alzheimer's Institute (AGS); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences (AGS), Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa; Louis and Anne Green Memory and Wellness Center (MÁO), Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton; Alzheimer's Association (JS, DM), Florida Region, Clearwater; Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics (CLB), University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL; and [N/A - caregiver representative] (DW)
| | - Marcela Kitaigorodsky
- Department of Neurology (MJA, NB, YM), University of Florida College of Medicine; UF Health Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases (MJA, NB, YM), Gainesville; Department of Psychology (MR), Florida Atlantic University, Davie; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (RECC), University of Miami Miller School of Medicine; FL Neuro-Health (MK), Miami; Comprehensive Center for Brain Health (JEG), Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Boca Raton; Department of Neurology (CL); Department of Psychiatry and Psychology (CL), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville; Byrd Alzheimer's Institute (AGS); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences (AGS), Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa; Louis and Anne Green Memory and Wellness Center (MÁO), Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton; Alzheimer's Association (JS, DM), Florida Region, Clearwater; Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics (CLB), University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL; and [N/A - caregiver representative] (DW)
| | - James E Galvin
- Department of Neurology (MJA, NB, YM), University of Florida College of Medicine; UF Health Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases (MJA, NB, YM), Gainesville; Department of Psychology (MR), Florida Atlantic University, Davie; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (RECC), University of Miami Miller School of Medicine; FL Neuro-Health (MK), Miami; Comprehensive Center for Brain Health (JEG), Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Boca Raton; Department of Neurology (CL); Department of Psychiatry and Psychology (CL), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville; Byrd Alzheimer's Institute (AGS); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences (AGS), Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa; Louis and Anne Green Memory and Wellness Center (MÁO), Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton; Alzheimer's Association (JS, DM), Florida Region, Clearwater; Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics (CLB), University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL; and [N/A - caregiver representative] (DW)
| | - Christian Lachner
- Department of Neurology (MJA, NB, YM), University of Florida College of Medicine; UF Health Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases (MJA, NB, YM), Gainesville; Department of Psychology (MR), Florida Atlantic University, Davie; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (RECC), University of Miami Miller School of Medicine; FL Neuro-Health (MK), Miami; Comprehensive Center for Brain Health (JEG), Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Boca Raton; Department of Neurology (CL); Department of Psychiatry and Psychology (CL), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville; Byrd Alzheimer's Institute (AGS); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences (AGS), Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa; Louis and Anne Green Memory and Wellness Center (MÁO), Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton; Alzheimer's Association (JS, DM), Florida Region, Clearwater; Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics (CLB), University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL; and [N/A - caregiver representative] (DW)
| | - Amanda Grant Smith
- Department of Neurology (MJA, NB, YM), University of Florida College of Medicine; UF Health Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases (MJA, NB, YM), Gainesville; Department of Psychology (MR), Florida Atlantic University, Davie; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (RECC), University of Miami Miller School of Medicine; FL Neuro-Health (MK), Miami; Comprehensive Center for Brain Health (JEG), Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Boca Raton; Department of Neurology (CL); Department of Psychiatry and Psychology (CL), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville; Byrd Alzheimer's Institute (AGS); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences (AGS), Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa; Louis and Anne Green Memory and Wellness Center (MÁO), Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton; Alzheimer's Association (JS, DM), Florida Region, Clearwater; Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics (CLB), University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL; and [N/A - caregiver representative] (DW)
| | - María de Los Ángeles Ortega
- Department of Neurology (MJA, NB, YM), University of Florida College of Medicine; UF Health Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases (MJA, NB, YM), Gainesville; Department of Psychology (MR), Florida Atlantic University, Davie; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (RECC), University of Miami Miller School of Medicine; FL Neuro-Health (MK), Miami; Comprehensive Center for Brain Health (JEG), Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Boca Raton; Department of Neurology (CL); Department of Psychiatry and Psychology (CL), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville; Byrd Alzheimer's Institute (AGS); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences (AGS), Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa; Louis and Anne Green Memory and Wellness Center (MÁO), Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton; Alzheimer's Association (JS, DM), Florida Region, Clearwater; Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics (CLB), University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL; and [N/A - caregiver representative] (DW)
| | - Yasmin Mohiuddin
- Department of Neurology (MJA, NB, YM), University of Florida College of Medicine; UF Health Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases (MJA, NB, YM), Gainesville; Department of Psychology (MR), Florida Atlantic University, Davie; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (RECC), University of Miami Miller School of Medicine; FL Neuro-Health (MK), Miami; Comprehensive Center for Brain Health (JEG), Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Boca Raton; Department of Neurology (CL); Department of Psychiatry and Psychology (CL), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville; Byrd Alzheimer's Institute (AGS); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences (AGS), Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa; Louis and Anne Green Memory and Wellness Center (MÁO), Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton; Alzheimer's Association (JS, DM), Florida Region, Clearwater; Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics (CLB), University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL; and [N/A - caregiver representative] (DW)
| | - Julie Shatzer
- Department of Neurology (MJA, NB, YM), University of Florida College of Medicine; UF Health Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases (MJA, NB, YM), Gainesville; Department of Psychology (MR), Florida Atlantic University, Davie; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (RECC), University of Miami Miller School of Medicine; FL Neuro-Health (MK), Miami; Comprehensive Center for Brain Health (JEG), Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Boca Raton; Department of Neurology (CL); Department of Psychiatry and Psychology (CL), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville; Byrd Alzheimer's Institute (AGS); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences (AGS), Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa; Louis and Anne Green Memory and Wellness Center (MÁO), Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton; Alzheimer's Association (JS, DM), Florida Region, Clearwater; Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics (CLB), University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL; and [N/A - caregiver representative] (DW)
| | - Deann Marasco
- Department of Neurology (MJA, NB, YM), University of Florida College of Medicine; UF Health Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases (MJA, NB, YM), Gainesville; Department of Psychology (MR), Florida Atlantic University, Davie; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (RECC), University of Miami Miller School of Medicine; FL Neuro-Health (MK), Miami; Comprehensive Center for Brain Health (JEG), Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Boca Raton; Department of Neurology (CL); Department of Psychiatry and Psychology (CL), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville; Byrd Alzheimer's Institute (AGS); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences (AGS), Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa; Louis and Anne Green Memory and Wellness Center (MÁO), Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton; Alzheimer's Association (JS, DM), Florida Region, Clearwater; Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics (CLB), University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL; and [N/A - caregiver representative] (DW)
| | - Dianna Willis
- Department of Neurology (MJA, NB, YM), University of Florida College of Medicine; UF Health Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases (MJA, NB, YM), Gainesville; Department of Psychology (MR), Florida Atlantic University, Davie; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (RECC), University of Miami Miller School of Medicine; FL Neuro-Health (MK), Miami; Comprehensive Center for Brain Health (JEG), Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Boca Raton; Department of Neurology (CL); Department of Psychiatry and Psychology (CL), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville; Byrd Alzheimer's Institute (AGS); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences (AGS), Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa; Louis and Anne Green Memory and Wellness Center (MÁO), Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton; Alzheimer's Association (JS, DM), Florida Region, Clearwater; Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics (CLB), University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL; and [N/A - caregiver representative] (DW)
| | - Carma L Bylund
- Department of Neurology (MJA, NB, YM), University of Florida College of Medicine; UF Health Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases (MJA, NB, YM), Gainesville; Department of Psychology (MR), Florida Atlantic University, Davie; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (RECC), University of Miami Miller School of Medicine; FL Neuro-Health (MK), Miami; Comprehensive Center for Brain Health (JEG), Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Boca Raton; Department of Neurology (CL); Department of Psychiatry and Psychology (CL), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville; Byrd Alzheimer's Institute (AGS); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences (AGS), Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa; Louis and Anne Green Memory and Wellness Center (MÁO), Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton; Alzheimer's Association (JS, DM), Florida Region, Clearwater; Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics (CLB), University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL; and [N/A - caregiver representative] (DW)
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3
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Frisoni GB, Altomare D, Ribaldi F, Villain N, Brayne C, Mukadam N, Abramowicz M, Barkhof F, Berthier M, Bieler-Aeschlimann M, Blennow K, Brioschi Guevara A, Carrera E, Chételat G, Csajka C, Demonet JF, Dodich A, Garibotto V, Georges J, Hurst S, Jessen F, Kivipelto M, Llewellyn DJ, McWhirter L, Milne R, Minguillón C, Miniussi C, Molinuevo JL, Nilsson PM, Noyce A, Ranson JM, Grau-Rivera O, Schott JM, Solomon A, Stephen R, van der Flier W, van Duijn C, Vellas B, Visser LN, Cummings JL, Scheltens P, Ritchie C, Dubois B. Dementia prevention in memory clinics: recommendations from the European task force for brain health services. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. EUROPE 2023; 26:100576. [PMID: 36895446 PMCID: PMC9989648 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanepe.2022.100576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Observational population studies indicate that prevention of dementia and cognitive decline is being accomplished, possibly as an unintended result of better vascular prevention and healthier lifestyles. Population aging in the coming decades requires deliberate efforts to further decrease its prevalence and societal burden. Increasing evidence supports the efficacy of preventive interventions on persons with intact cognition and high dementia risk. We report recommendations for the deployment of second-generation memory clinics (Brain Health Services) whose mission is evidence-based and ethical dementia prevention in at-risk individuals. The cornerstone interventions consist of (i) assessment of genetic and potentially modifiable risk factors including brain pathology, and risk stratification, (ii) risk communication with ad-hoc protocols, (iii) risk reduction with multi-domain interventions, and (iv) cognitive enhancement with cognitive and physical training. A roadmap is proposed for concept validation and ensuing clinical deployment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni B. Frisoni
- Memory Center, Department of Rehabilitation and Geriatrics, University Hospitals and University of Geneva Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Daniele Altomare
- Memory Center, Department of Rehabilitation and Geriatrics, University Hospitals and University of Geneva Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Federica Ribaldi
- Memory Center, Department of Rehabilitation and Geriatrics, University Hospitals and University of Geneva Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Villain
- Institut de la Mémoire et de la Maladie d’Alzheimer, IM2A, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle Épinière, UMR-S975, INSERM, Paris, France
| | - Carol Brayne
- Cambridge Public Health, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Naaheed Mukadam
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Marc Abramowicz
- Genetic Medicine, Diagnostics Dept, University Hospitals and University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Frederik Barkhof
- Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Marcelo Berthier
- Unit of Cognitive Neurology and Aphasia, Centro de Investigaciones Médico-Sanitarias (CIMES), University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - Melanie Bieler-Aeschlimann
- Leenaards Memory Centre, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University Hospital of Lausanne (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Infections Disease Service, University Hospital of Lausanne (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Kaj Blennow
- Clinical Neurochemistry Laboratory, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Gothenburg, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Andrea Brioschi Guevara
- Leenaards Memory Centre, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University Hospital of Lausanne (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Emmanuel Carrera
- Stroke Center, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University Hospitals and University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Gaël Chételat
- Normandie University, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, PhIND Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders, Cyceron, Caen, France
| | - Chantal Csajka
- Center of Research and Innovation in Clinical Pharmaceutical Sciences, University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jean-François Demonet
- Leenaards Memory Centre, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University Hospital of Lausanne (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
- French Clinical Research Infrastructure Network, INSERM, University Hospital of Toulouse, France
| | - Alessandra Dodich
- Center for Mind/Brain Sciences (CIMeC), University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy
| | - Valentina Garibotto
- Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University Hospitals of Geneva and NIMTLab, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Samia Hurst
- Institute for Ethics, History, and the Humanities, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Frank Jessen
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Bonn-Cologne, Germany
- Excellence Cluster Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Related Diseases (CECAD), Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Germany
| | - Miia Kivipelto
- Division of Clinical Geriatrics, Center for Alzheimer Research, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Institute of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- Theme Aging, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- The Ageing Epidemiology Research Unit, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - David J. Llewellyn
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, UK
- Alan Turing Institute, Exeter, UK
| | - Laura McWhirter
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Richard Milne
- Cambridge Public Health, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Engagement and Society, Wellcome Connecting Science, Hinxton, UK
| | - Carolina Minguillón
- Barcelonaβeta Brain Research Center (BBRC), Pasqual Maragall Foundation, Barcelona, Spain
- IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlo Miniussi
- Center for Mind/Brain Sciences (CIMeC), University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy
- Centre for Medical Sciences (CISMed), University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy
| | - José Luis Molinuevo
- Barcelonaβeta Brain Research Center (BBRC), Pasqual Maragall Foundation, Barcelona, Spain
- H. Lundbeck A/S, Denmark
| | - Peter M. Nilsson
- Department of Clinical Science, Lund University, Sweden
- Department of Internal Medicine, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Alastair Noyce
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | | | - Oriol Grau-Rivera
- Barcelonaβeta Brain Research Center (BBRC), Pasqual Maragall Foundation, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jonathan M. Schott
- Dementia Research Centre, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Alina Solomon
- The Ageing Epidemiology Research Unit, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- Division of Clinical Geriatrics, NVS, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ruth Stephen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Wiesje van der Flier
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Department of Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Neuroscience, Neurodegeneration, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Epidemiology and Data Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC location VUmc, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Cornelia van Duijn
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Clinical Trial Service Unit and Epidemiological Studies Unit, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Bruno Vellas
- Gerontopole and Alzheimer's Disease Research and Clinical Center, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | - Leonie N.C. Visser
- Division of Clinical Geriatrics, Center for Alzheimer Research, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jeffrey L. Cummings
- Chambers-Grundy Center for Transformative Neuroscience, Department of Brain Health, School of Integrated Health Sciences, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Philip Scheltens
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Department of Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- EQT Life Sciences, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Craig Ritchie
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Bruno Dubois
- Institut de la Mémoire et de la Maladie d’Alzheimer, IM2A, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle Épinière, UMR-S975, INSERM, Paris, France
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4
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Sullivan KA, Graham K, Parkinson L. Ratings of the reasons for and against the disclosure of an Alzheimer's disease diagnosis: has anything changed in the past 20 years? Aging Ment Health 2022:1-7. [PMID: 35930316 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2022.2107174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The disclosure of an Alzheimer's disease diagnosis poses challenges for health care professionals, patients, and their families. Past research has shown that people favour disclosure, but it is uncertain if this situation has changed. METHOD We used a cross-sectional online survey to explore disclosure preferences in a sample of young adults (n = 229; 66.7% aged 18 - 25 years, 79.5% Australian born). Factors contributing to preferences were also examined (knowledge, experience, close experience, age, relationship to diagnosis recipient). Established measures were used to assess knowledge (the Alzheimer's Disease Knowledge Test) and preferences (the Reasons for Wanting to Know Questionnaire). RESULTS Most (95%) but not all participants favoured disclosure, whilst recognising as important at least one reason against it. Only age was a significant determinant of preferences (older people were more likely to prefer disclosure). Those against disclosure cited the fear of suicide as a key reason. CONCLUSION The right to know remains a primary reason for preferring disclosure. Health care professionals should use pre-diagnostic interviewing to discuss overall preference and the underpinning reasons both for and against disclosure. Focus should be on developing a person-centred approach that responds to concerns, with further research to evaluate this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen A Sullivan
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.,Australian Centre for Health Law Research, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Karen Graham
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Lauren Parkinson
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
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5
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de Levante Raphael D. The Knowledge and Attitudes of Primary Care and the Barriers to Early Detection and Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58070906. [PMID: 35888625 PMCID: PMC9320284 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58070906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary care physicians play a vital role in the clinical care of their patients, early identification of dementia, and disease advocacy. It is essential to assess the knowledge and attitudes of physicians in the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. In primary care, the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease is often missed or delayed. With the increased prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease and the growing impact of dementia on health care resources, early detection by primary care physicians (PCP) is essential. Thus, their knowledge and attitudes about early detection and diagnosis are crucial. To examine the knowledge and attitudes of primary care physicians regarding early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and how barriers may contribute to missed and delayed detection and diagnosis. An interpretive scope review was used to synthesize and analyze a body of literature published over the past decade. The study population are physicians in the United States. The current health systems experience challenges in providing early, safe, accurate, and comprehensive Alzheimer’s diagnosis and care by a primary care physician trained or knowledgeable in diagnosing the various forms of dementia. This article identifies several interrelated obstacles to early detection and diagnosis in primary dementia care, including gaps in knowledge, attitudes, skills, and resources for person with dementia (PWD)/caregivers and their primary care providers and systematic and structural barriers that negatively impact dementia care. Research shows that Alzheimer’s disease has gone underdiagnosed and undertreated. Delays in detection, diagnosis, and resource utilization may have social and clinical implications for individuals affected by Alzheimer’s disease and their families, including challenges in obtaining an accurate diagnosis. Until the issues of missed and delayed Alzheimer’s screening become more compelling, efforts to promote early detection and diagnosis should focus on the education of physicians and removing the barriers to diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donna de Levante Raphael
- National Memory Screening Department, The Alzheimer's Foundation of America, New York, NY 10001, USA
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6
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Sullivan KA, Purser K, Graham K, Parkinson L. Public awareness of legal decision-making capacity and planning instruments in dementia: implications for health care practitioners. PSYCHIATRY, PSYCHOLOGY, AND LAW : AN INTERDISCIPLINARY JOURNAL OF THE AUSTRALIAN AND NEW ZEALAND ASSOCIATION OF PSYCHIATRY, PSYCHOLOGY AND LAW 2022; 30:565-578. [PMID: 37484509 PMCID: PMC10360997 DOI: 10.1080/13218719.2022.2060364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The protection of a person facing difficulties with legal decision-making can be challenging; however, estate planning documents (EPDs) can offer safeguards. Little is known about the community awareness of EPDs and their perceived importance, including for people with dementia. Two-hundred and thirty adults read a mild dementia vignette, proposed a diagnosis for the vignette character (VC), and rated the VC's legal decision-making capacity (DMC). The effect on ratings about DMC under different conditions was explored (e.g., variation of VC characteristics and the decision). Awareness, and the personal importance, of EPDs were assessed. DMC was affected by the variations in the VC's age, diagnosis, and the decision, as high- or low-stakes, but not VC sex. Awareness of EPDs was low; however, planning importance was increased for dementia. Although the public understand that dementia affects DMC, they require further information about EPDs to validly enact them, thereby reducing potential vulnerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen A. Sullivan
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Australian Centre for Health Law Research, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Kelly Purser
- Australian Centre for Health Law Research, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Law, Faculty of Business and Law, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Karen Graham
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Lauren Parkinson
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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7
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Merl H, Veronica Doherty K, Alty J, Salmon K. Truth, hope and the disclosure of a dementia diagnosis: A scoping review of the ethical considerations from the perspective of the person, carer and clinician. DEMENTIA 2022; 21:1050-1068. [PMID: 35134305 DOI: 10.1177/14713012211067882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This paper explores contemporary approaches to balancing truth with the provision of hope during the disclosure of a dementia diagnosis. We discuss the ethical significance of these practices as they relate to each member of the triad - the person, the carer and the clinician - at the point of diagnosis and beyond. The process of disclosing a diagnosis of dementia is complex. It encompasses breaking bad news while balancing hope, with truth about a progressive life-limiting condition. The process of receiving the diagnosis likewise challenges the person who may be unprepared for the diagnosis, while carers seek information and supports. The impact of receiving a diagnosis of dementia can be life-changing and harmful at the personal level - for both the person and carer. This risk of harm becomes a critical consideration for clinicians when deciding on the level of truth: what information should be relayed and to whom? That risk is also balanced against the ethical issue of patient autonomy, which includes the right to know (or not) and make informed decisions about therapeutic interventions. While the consensus is that the autonomy of the person living with dementia must be upheld, controversy exists regarding the extent to which this should occur. For instance, at diagnosis, it is common for clinicians to use euphemisms rather than the word dementia to maintain hope, even though people and carers prefer to know the diagnosis. This practice of therapeutic lying is a pervasive ethical issue in dementia care, made more acceptable by its roots in diagnosis disclosure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helga Merl
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, 3925University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | | | - Jane Alty
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, 3925University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
- Neurology department, Royal Hobart Hospital, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Katharine Salmon
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, 3925University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
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8
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Garnier-Crussard A, Vernaudon J, Auguste N, Dauphinot V, Krolak-Salmon P. What Could Be the Main Levers to Promote a Timely Diagnosis of Neurocognitive Disorders? J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 75:201-210. [PMID: 32280094 DOI: 10.3233/jad-191253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurocognitive disorders (NCD) are a growing health issue and the importance of diagnosis is still debated despite the benefits of making a diagnosis appearing to be greater than the risks. OBJECTIVE The aim of the present study was to explore the perception of the main benefits and risks to perform a diagnosis workup of NCD in a population of general practitioners (GPs), specialized physicians (SPs), other healthcare professionals (OHPs), and informal caregivers (ICs), and to identify the lowest perceived benefits and the highest perceived risks that could be levers to promote a diagnosis of NCD. METHODS A standardized questionnaire was submitted to GPs, SPs, OHPs, and ICs aiming to evaluate the importance of eight benefits and eight risks related to NCD diagnosis (selected from the literature) for four prototypical clinical cases at different stages of the disease: subjective cognitive impairment/mild NCD, major NCD at mild/moderate stage, moderate stage with behavioral and psychotic symptoms, and severe stage. RESULTS The lowest perceived benefits of making an NCD diagnosis were "access to medical research", "patient's right to know", and "initiation of symptomatic drug treatment". The highest perceived risks of making an NCD diagnosis were "negative psychological impact for the patient", "absence of disease-modifying treatment", and "absence of suitable institution". CONCLUSION This study highlights the lowest perceived benefits and the highest perceived risks of making an NCD diagnosis. These benefits and risks could be modified to become levers to promote a personalized diagnosis of NCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Garnier-Crussard
- Centre Mémoire Ressource et Recherche de Lyon (CMRR), Hôpital des Charpennes, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France.,Institut du Vieillissement I-Vie, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Julien Vernaudon
- Centre Mémoire Ressource et Recherche de Lyon (CMRR), Hôpital des Charpennes, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France.,Institut du Vieillissement I-Vie, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France.,Centre de Recherche Clinique CRC - VCF (Vieillissement - Cerveau - Fragilité), Hôpital des Charpennes, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Nicolas Auguste
- Centre Mutualiste de Consultation Mémoire, Saint-Étienne, France
| | - Virginie Dauphinot
- Centre Mémoire Ressource et Recherche de Lyon (CMRR), Hôpital des Charpennes, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France.,Institut du Vieillissement I-Vie, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Pierre Krolak-Salmon
- Centre Mémoire Ressource et Recherche de Lyon (CMRR), Hôpital des Charpennes, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France.,Institut du Vieillissement I-Vie, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France.,Centre de Recherche Clinique CRC - VCF (Vieillissement - Cerveau - Fragilité), Hôpital des Charpennes, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France.,INSERM, U1028; CNRS, UMR5292; Lyon Centre de Recherche en Neurosciences de Lyon, Dynamique Cérébrale et Cognition, Lyon, France
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9
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Wehrmann H, Michalowsky B, Lepper S, Mohr W, Raedke A, Hoffmann W. Priorities and Preferences of People Living with Dementia or Cognitive Impairment - A Systematic Review. Patient Prefer Adherence 2021; 15:2793-2807. [PMID: 34934309 PMCID: PMC8684431 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s333923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Knowledge about the priorities and preferences of people living with dementia (PwD) might help to individualize treatment, care, and support, which could improve patient-related outcomes. This study aimed to summarize preferences of PwD or people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), considering all relevant aspects of health care and everyday life. METHODS We conducted a systematic literature review and included studies about patient preferences published in English between January 1, 1990 and October 28, 2019. The inclusion criteria were that preferences were elicited directly by PwD or patients with MCI. We used the International Consortium for Health Outcomes Management value set for dementia to categorize the preferences into the following topics: a) clinical status, b) symptoms, functioning, and quality of life, and c) sustainability of care. RESULTS Of 578 initially identified studies, 45 met the inclusion criteria. Patients preferred to be informed about the diagnosis as early as possible, especially for anticipatory care planning. They ranked caregiver quality of life as their highest priority. They preferred not to be a burden to others more than their caregivers' mood, their own functional status, or their own distressing behaviors. Furthermore, PwD are eager to participate in medical decisions, especially in those about creating an everyday life routine. PwD preferred their own quality of life, self-efficacy, and emotional well-being. Institutionalized PwD preferred individualized and person-centered care. According to the sustainability of care, PwD preferred to maintain close bonds with their family at the end of their life and wanted to be treated with empathy. CONCLUSION This systematic review provides essential insights into cognitively impaired patients' preferences, which are rarely considered in treatment, care, and support services. Further studies should evaluate whether considering preferences in treatment and care or daily living can improve patient-reported outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Wehrmann
- Translational Health Care Research, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Site Rostock/Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Bernhard Michalowsky
- Translational Health Care Research, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Site Rostock/Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
- Correspondence: Bernhard Michalowsky Tel +49 3834 86 75 07 Email
| | - Simon Lepper
- Translational Health Care Research, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Site Rostock/Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Wiebke Mohr
- Translational Health Care Research, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Site Rostock/Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Anika Raedke
- Translational Health Care Research, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Site Rostock/Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Hoffmann
- Translational Health Care Research, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Site Rostock/Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
- Epidemiology of Health Care and Community Health, Institute for Community Medicine & University Medicine Greifswald (UMG), Greifswald, Germany
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10
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Mormont E, Bier JC, Bruffaerts R, Cras P, De Deyn P, Deryck O, Engelborghs S, Petrovic M, Picard G, Segers K, Thiery E, Versijpt J, Hanseeuw B. Practices and opinions about disclosure of the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease to patients with MCI or dementia: a survey among Belgian medical experts in the field of dementia. Acta Neurol Belg 2020; 120:1157-1163. [PMID: 32715405 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-020-01448-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Previous surveys revealed that only a minority of clinicians routinely disclosed the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) to their patients. Many health professionals fear that the disclosure could be harmful to the patient. Recent advances in the development of biomarkers and new diagnostic criteria allow for an earlier diagnosis of AD at the mild cognitive impairment (MCI) stage. The Belgian Dementia Council, a group of Belgian experts in the field of dementia, performed a survey among its 44 members about their opinions and practices regarding disclosure of the diagnosis of AD, including MCI due to AD, and its consequences. Twenty-six respondents declared that they often or always disclose the diagnosis of AD to patients with dementia and to patients with MCI when AD CSF biomarkers are abnormal. The majority observed that the disclosure of AD is rarely or never harmful to the patients. Their patients and their caregivers rarely or never demonstrated animosity towards the clinicians following disclosure of the diagnosis of AD. These results should reassure clinicians about the safety of AD diagnosis disclosure in most cases whether the patient is at the MCI or the dementia stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Mormont
- Department of Neurology, CHU UCL Namur, UCLouvain, 1 Avenue Dr G. Therasse, 5530, Yvoir, Belgium.
- Institute of NeuroScience, UCLouvain, 1200, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Jean-Christophe Bier
- Department of Neurology, Erasme University Hospital, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Rose Bruffaerts
- Laboratory for Cognitive Neurology, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Neurology Department, University Hospitals Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Patrick Cras
- Department of Neurology, Instituut Born Bunge, Antwerp University Hospital, Universiteit Antwerpen, 2650, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Peter De Deyn
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Behavior, Reference Center for Biological Markers of Dementia (BIODEM), Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Neurology and Memory Clinic, Hospital Network Antwerp (ZNA) Middelheim and Hoge Beuken, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Olivier Deryck
- Department of Neurology, Center for Cognitive Disorders, AZ Sint-Jan Brugge-Oostende, Brugge, Belgium
| | - Sebastiaan Engelborghs
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Behavior, Reference Center for Biological Markers of Dementia (BIODEM), Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Neurology and Center for Neurosciences, UZ Brussel and Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mirko Petrovic
- Section of Geriatrics, Department of Internal Medicine and Paediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Geriatrics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Gaëtane Picard
- Department of Neurology, Clinique St Pierre, Ottignies, Belgium
| | - Kurt Segers
- Department of Neurology, Brugmann University Hospital, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Evert Thiery
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Ghent, Ghent University, C. Heymanslaan, 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jan Versijpt
- Department of Neurology and Center for Neurosciences, UZ Brussel and Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bernard Hanseeuw
- Institute of NeuroScience, UCLouvain, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, UCLouvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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11
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Hagan RJ. What next? Experiences of social support and signposting after a diagnosis of dementia. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2020; 28:1170-1179. [PMID: 31997478 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.12949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2019] [Revised: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/12/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The experience of being diagnosed with dementia can be shocking. This may be compounded if individuals feel that there is a lack of signposting onto further avenues of support following diagnosis. This study, then, examines how social support is promoted in the diagnostic process. Using purposive sampling and a grounded theory approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 members of a dementia empowerment group in Northern Ireland, discussing both their experience of diagnosis and also their subsequent group membership. Respondents reported both positive and negative experiences of diagnosis. Feelings of shock and bewilderment accompanied this process. Only one was able to identify a direct link between a medical professional and referral to the empowerment group, others being referred by other health professionals or dementia navigators. The study indicates that, due to disorienting feelings, one diagnostic consultation is insufficient to explain both the diagnosis and offer follow-up support. Therefore, more explicit links to navigators or other services need to be made at the point of diagnosis to prioritise information regarding opportunities for social engagement for those being diagnosed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Hagan
- School of Social Care and Social Work, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
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12
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Peavy GM, Jenkins CW, Little EA, Gigliotti C, Calcetas A, Edland SD, Brewer JB, Galasko D, Salmon DP. Community memory screening as a strategy for recruiting older adults into Alzheimer's disease research. ALZHEIMERS RESEARCH & THERAPY 2020; 12:78. [PMID: 32605603 PMCID: PMC7325657 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-020-00643-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2019] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background Growing awareness of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has prompted a demand for quick and effective ways to screen for memory loss and cognitive decline in large numbers of individuals in the community. Periodic Memory Screening Day events provide free, brief cognitive screening aimed at those 65 years and older, and can serve as an opportunity to gauge participants’ attitudes towards AD research and recruit them into ongoing research projects. Methods Over 6 single-day events in 2 years, more than 574 individuals were individually screened using the MoCA and a story recall task (immediate and delayed), given feedback about their performance, and introduced to AD research and opportunities to participate. Results Screening classified 297 individuals (52.0%) as having “No Decline,” 192 (33.6%) as “Possible decline,” and 82 (14.4%) as “Likely decline.” Those with “Likely decline” were older and less educated, had more memory concerns, were more likely to be men, and were less likely to have a positive family history of dementia than those with “No Decline.” Subsequent validation of screening procedures against a full clinical evaluation showed 72% classification accuracy with a skew towards over-calling Possible and Likely decline and thereby guiding questionable individuals to a more thorough evaluation. Of those screened, 378 (66%) agreed to additional research and consented to being listed in a research registry, and a majority (70–85%) of those consenting reported they were amenable to various AD research procedures including lumbar puncture, MRI, and autopsy. Overall, 19.1% of those screened met inclusion criteria for ongoing studies and were successfully recruited into AD research. Conclusions Conducting a few concentrated community memory screening events each year may help meet the public’s demand for brief assessment of memory concerns and can be a relatively effective and efficient recruitment strategy for AD research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guerry M Peavy
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0948, USA.
| | - Cecily W Jenkins
- Department of Neurology, Alzheimer Therapeutic Research Institute, University of Southern California, 9860 Mesa Rim Road, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA
| | - Emily A Little
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0948, USA
| | - Christina Gigliotti
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0948, USA
| | - Amanda Calcetas
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0948, USA
| | - Steven D Edland
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0948, USA.,Department of Family Medicine & Public Health, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - James B Brewer
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0948, USA.,Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Douglas Galasko
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0948, USA
| | - David P Salmon
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0948, USA
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13
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Gruters AAA, Christie HL, Ramakers IHGB, Verhey FRJ, Kessels RPC, de Vugt ME. Neuropsychological assessment and diagnostic disclosure at a memory clinic: A qualitative study of the experiences of patients and their family members. Clin Neuropsychol 2020; 35:1398-1414. [PMID: 32301377 DOI: 10.1080/13854046.2020.1749936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to gain insight into the experiences of patients and their family members regarding a neuropsychological assessment (NPA) and the diagnostic disclosure given by the medical specialist (psychiatrist, geriatrician, or their residents) at the memory clinic (MC). METHOD Patients with and without a cognitive impairment and their family members were recruited from three Dutch MCs. Four focus groups with 14 patients and 13 family members were analyzed using both inductive and deductive content analysis. RESULTS Three themes were identified: uncertainty, early diagnostic paradox, and knowledge utilization. High levels of uncertainty were experienced throughout the NPA and diagnostic disclosure. The early diagnostic paradox refers to the coexistence of negative emotions, feeling distressed due to undergoing an NPA that made them aware of their cognitive complaints, and the experience of relief due to insight given by the outcome of the NPA and medical diagnosis. Knowledge utilization refers to a low retention of medical information. CONCLUSION Clinicians can reduce uncertainty by using clear communication, limiting interruptions during an NPA, and paying attention to contextual factors. Low information retention could possibly be improved by involving a family member and using visual aids or written information during the diagnostic disclosure. Finally, participants also appreciated being provided with neuropsychological feedback on the strengths and weaknesses of their cognitive profiles and with guidance on how to manage this diagnosis in their daily lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angélique A A Gruters
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Alzheimer Center Limburg, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Hannah L Christie
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Alzheimer Center Limburg, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Inez H G B Ramakers
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Alzheimer Center Limburg, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Frans R J Verhey
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Alzheimer Center Limburg, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Roy P C Kessels
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.,Department of Medical Psychology & Radboudumc Alzheimer Center, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Marjolein E de Vugt
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Alzheimer Center Limburg, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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14
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Aufill J, Amjad H, Roter DL, Wolff JL. Discussion of memory during primary care visits of older adults with cognitive impairment and accompanying family. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2019; 34:1605-1612. [PMID: 31294474 PMCID: PMC6954826 DOI: 10.1002/gps.5172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cognitive impairment is underdiagnosed in primary care. Understanding factors that precipitate memory-related discussion could inform strategies to improve diagnosis and counseling. We assessed whether: 1) having a cognitive impairment or dementia diagnosis, 2) ratings of cognition by clinicians, or 3) ratings of cognition by family companions were associated with memory-related discussion during primary care visits. METHODS We examined audio-recorded primary care visits of cognitively impaired patients aged 65 years and older, family companions (n = 93 dyads), and clinicians (n = 14). Cognitive impairment and dementia diagnoses were extracted from the electronic health record. Clinicians and family rated patient cognition on a 10-point scale in postvisit surveys. We measured memory-related discussion using a ratio of memory-related discussion episodes to total visit statements. RESULTS We observed more memory-related discussion during primary care visits of patients with a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment (+7.8% episodes; P < .001) or dementia (+26.3% episodes; P < .001) than no diagnosis. Clinician and family ratings of cognition varied by diagnosis: among patients with no diagnosis, family rated worse impairment than clinicians (average: 2.4 versus 1.3; P = .004) while for patients with a dementia diagnosis, clinicians rated worse impairment than family (average: 7.1 versus 5.5; P = .006). Each unit increase in clinician-rated severity of cognitive impairment was associated with more memory-related discussion (+2.6% episodes; P < .001); this association was attenuated for family (+0.7% episodes; P = .095). CONCLUSIONS Discussion of cognitive impairment appears largely driven by clinician ratings of cognition and presence of an established diagnosis. Findings suggest potential benefit of engaging family to improve cognitive impairment detection in primary care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Aufill
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 North Broadway, Room 690 Baltimore, MD 21205
| | - Halima Amjad
- Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 5200 Eastern Avenue, Mason F. Lord Center Tower, Baltimore, MD 21224
| | - Debra L. Roter
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 North Broadway, Room 750, Baltimore, MD 21205
| | - Jennifer L. Wolff
- Eugene & Mildred Lipitz Professor of Health Policy & Management, Roger C. Lipitz Center for Integrated Health Care, Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Room 692 Baltimore, MD 21205
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