ABSTRACT
Demographic trends, described as “the graying of America”, require that we confront the social and economic impact posed by dementia. As the population surviving beyond their 60s and at risk for dementia increases, the burden placed on families and the cost to society at the micro and macro levels escalate. In estimating rates of dementia, numerous variations make it difficult to obtain consistent information. Knowledge about dementia as it occurs in the general population comes principally from epidemiological studies. Data are needed using large and representative samples surveyed with a standardized valid instrument. There is general agreement that changes in personality, behavior, physical, and social function accompany the cognitive impairment of dementia The ability to reliably and efficiently identify persons in the community who are demented is needed.
