Many Older Americans May Have Dementia Diagnoses Without Knowing
Summary
A new study from Yale University found that many older Americans do not report or know they have been diagnosed with dementia. The study shows that 67% of people in the study underreported their dementia diagnosis, much higher than the underreporting rates for other common diseases.Key Facts
- The study was published on August 26 in JAMA Network Open.
- 67% of older Americans in the study underreported having dementia.
- Underreporting rates for other diseases were lower: 23% for hypertension, 17% for arthritis, 39% for diabetes, and 46% for depression.
- Dementia is often not clearly communicated to patients or their families by healthcare providers.
- Patients who were socially vulnerable, such as those living alone or with lower education, were more likely to underreport dementia.
- People enrolled in Medicare Advantage or seeing dementia specialists underreported less, suggesting good communication helps.
- Underreporting was not due to memory problems since those with dementia reported other conditions accurately.
- Experts say clear communication and support after diagnosis are necessary to improve care and safety.
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