This section calls for far more rigorous standards when diagnosing dementia, particularly where there are complex medication regimes and physical health problems in the background. It stresses the importance of systematically exploring reversible causes, paying attention to kidney function and drug side effects, taking thorough family histories, involving more than one clinician in the diagnostic process, and avoiding decisions based on assessments carried out during delirium or active infection. Over time, this area of the site will also host links to key academic and clinical papers on dementia diagnosis and prescribing standards, with the wider aim of informing – and where possible helping to fund – research that prevents avoidable misdiagnosis and harm.
Dopamine Justice Alliance