80% of Americans With Dementia May Not Even Know It – Here’s Why

A recent study has unveiled a concerning reality: four out of five Americans exhibiting signs of dementia have not been formally diagnosed.

Conducted in Nueces County, Texas, the research assessed 652 older adults and found that 322 met the criteria for probable dementia. Shockingly, 84% of these individuals, despite regular interactions with primary care providers, had never been informed of their condition.

This diagnostic gap may stem from healthcare providers’ hesitation due to time constraints, lack of specialized training, or discomfort in conveying such life-altering news.

The study also revealed ethnic disparities, with Mexican American participants being less likely to receive a diagnosis compared to their non-Hispanic White counterparts.

These insights highlight a critical need for systemic changes in healthcare practices to ensure timely and accurate dementia diagnoses across diverse populations.

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