Dementia diagnosis and therapy in the elderly.

Dementia is a devastating personal tragedy, a cause of tremendous family strife, and a significant societal dilemma both medically and economically. Appropriate evaluation and therapy of medical complications, underlying causes of intellectual compromise, and non-cognitive behavioral disturbances are important goals. Comprehensive psychological, social, and legal support complement the medical management of these patients. Research to identify the underlying pathophysiology of and to devise more effective therapies for all aspects of these syndromes is an important priority. The physician who intervenes effectively for the elderly patient with dementia is a valuable asset to patients, families and, indirectly, society.