The relevance of early cognitive diagnosis in middle age or the threshold of old age—for a better quality of life for the long‐lived

Abstract

Background: Some clinical observations regarding patients referred by relatives in middle age or on the old age threshold (55-65 years) for a diagnosis of their clinical condition may already bring to light factors revealing an early cognitive decline. Method: Family history interview; Interview with patient; Application of neuropsychological tests. Report elaboration and return of results to family members and patients.Result: Some changes in the patient referred by family members are described and then attested, such as: recurrence or intensification of forgetfulness; individual and social withdrawal; some loss of daily life activity functionality. The patient, in turn, in this phase, usually underestimates, or denies, any degree of difficulty in his daily life. Conclusion: The delay in diagnosis and appropriate intervention based on CognitiveReserve factors in each clinical case favors possible dementia. Early intervention, before entering old age, is recommended, for a better quality of life in longevity.