Why is a Reliable Diagnosis Essential? It happens often that the Elderly will receive a Diagnosis “Alzheimer Dementia” and do not know what next is there for them. It even happens that the diagnosis is Not given in written to the Patient, neither when asked. There is also a tendency to Delay the Diagnosis, without looking for possible causes, and to wait until the condition worsens so to draw conclusions. In the meantime, the person will be advised to go to a daycare Center, where he or she must Behave Accordingly otherwise to be removed for Not Being Fit to be in that daycare. The latter when the functions are still mild. If the condition is getting worse, the accompanying person of the patient will be told to start preparations to enter an elderly home and that’s the end of the story.
Not receiving a Reliable Cognitive Diagnosis can result in significant negative consequences, including Missed Treatment Opportunities (for timely and appropriate treatment), Leading to Continued Decline or Worsening Symptoms. Cognitive Impairment Can Impact Physical Function, such as Balance and Mobility. A lack of Diagnosis Delays Interventions That Could Preserve These Functions and Prevent Falls or Injuries. It also causes Psychological Harm, Increased Caregiver Burden, Potential Financial Repercussions, and Delays in Future Planning for individuals and families affected by cognitive conditions.
A lack of a clear diagnosis can lead to blame or frustration from others when a person with cognitive impairment makes mistakes, increasing feelings of isolation and misunderstanding. The inability to understand and address cognitive issues can significantly diminish an individual’s ability to engage in daily activities, leading to frustration and a reduced quality of life.
Ultimately, a lack of diagnosis can Impair Daily Functioning, Reduce A Person’s Quality of Life, and Lead to Preventable Suffering and Increased Distrust in the Healthcare System, affecting individuals, families, and the broader public. Take Home Message September 21st, 2025 2 To obtain a Reliable Diagnosis of a Neurocognitive Disorder, a Thorough Clinical Assessment is essential, involving:
Detailed History from a reliable informant or care partner,
➢ A comprehensive Mental Status Examination/ SCREENING, with Cognitive
Tests like the MoCA or MMSE to Establish a Baseline, and
➢ Potentially Further Work-Up Including Neuroimaging and Lab Tests to identify
the underlying cause
An Early Assessment is recommended for Any New Changes in Cognition, Behavioral Symptoms, or Functional Decline, and Understanding That Neurocognitive Disorder Is a Broad Term With Various Causes, Including Reversible Conditions, is important for Appropriate Management.
A Reliable Neurocognitive Diagnosis is Needed to: Ensure an Accurate Diagnosis of a Brain Condition, like Neurocognitive Disorders or Traumatic Brain Injury, which helps distinguish it from Normal Aging or other conditions such as Depression. It also provides crucial information for Treatment Planning, Monitoring Disease Progression, Identifying Cognitive Strengths and Weaknesses to Improve Quality of Life, and Establishing a Baseline for Future Comparisons.
For More information on Reliable & Professional Diagnosis, Second Opinion and Abuse Report: Fundacion Alzheimer Aruba (FAA)