10. The Importance of Early Recognition: A Race Against Time
The early recognition of pseudodementia is critical to ensuring appropriate treatment and preventing unnecessary distress for the individual and their loved ones. When cognitive symptoms are attributed to irreversible dementia rather than a treatable condition like depression, the opportunity for recovery can be missed.
Initial recognition often begins with loved ones or caregivers who notice changes in the person’s mood or cognitive abilities. Their role in flagging these concerns to healthcare providers can be instrumental in initiating an evaluation and eventual diagnosis.
The next step is a comprehensive clinical evaluation, which should include a detailed medical history, mental health assessment, and cognitive testing. A thorough evaluation can help differentiate pseudodementia from true dementia and other cognitive disorders.(10)
