Alzheimer’s Association Releases New Dementia Diagnosis Guidelines
The Alzheimer’s Association recently updated its guidelines for diagnosing dementia, marking the first update in over 20 years. Known as the Diagnostic Evaluation, Testing, Counseling and Disclosure of Suspected Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (DETeCD-ADRD CPG), the new guidance offers a more comprehensive and flexible approach to diagnosis.
The updated guidelines emphasize evaluating three critical areas:
- Cognitive Impairment – Assessing the patient’s level of cognitive decline.
- Specific Symptoms – Identifying the unique characteristics of the condition.
- Underlying Brain Diseases – Determining potential causes through brain scans, lab tests, and emerging diagnostic tools.
The updated guidance now extends beyond neurology specialists to include family practitioners and primary care providers, ensuring more patients have access to earlier and more accurate diagnoses.
These changes provide a crucial foundation for clinicians, patients, and families to work together toward understanding memory concerns and identifying solutions. For more information on memory care and how we support families dealing with dementia, contact us today!
