It is vital to obtain a corroborating history from a relative or close friend in addition to the patient’s account if they can provide one. ![]() TAKING A HISTORY AND THE EXAMINATION OF THE MEMORY IMPAIRED PATIENT Certain investigations are mandatory and additional tests are recommended if the history and examination indicate particular aetiologies. A focused cognitive and physical examination is useful and the presence of specific features may aid in diagnosis. Clues to the nature and aetiology of the disorder are often found following careful consultation with the patient and carer. When approaching the patient with a possible dementia, taking a careful history is paramount. It is important to exclude delirium when considering such a diagnosis. ![]() To be significant the impairments should be severe enough to cause problems with social and occupational functioning and the decline must have occurred from a previously higher level. When making a diagnosis of dementia, features to look for include memory impairment and at least one of the following: aphasia, apraxia, agnosia and/or disturbances in executive functioning. ![]() Dementia is a clinical state characterised by a loss of function in at least two cognitive domains.
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