JAMA · Feb 25, 2020

Screening for Cognitive Impairment in Older Adults: US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement

By US Preventive Services Task Force, Owens DK, Davidson KW et al.

IMPORTANCE: Dementia (also known as major neurocognitive disorder) is defined by a significant decline in 1 or more cognitive domains that interferes with a person's independence in daily activities. Dementia affects an estimated 2.4 to 5.5 million individuals in the United States, and its prevalence increases with age. OBJECTIVE: To update its 2014 recommendation, the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) commissioned a review of the evidence on screening for cognitive impairment, including mild cognitive impairment and mild to moderate dementia, in community-dwelling adults, including those 65 years or older residing in independent living facilities. POPULATION: This recommendation applies to community-dwelling older adults 65 years or older, without recognized signs or symptoms of cognitive impairment. EVIDENCE ASSESSMENT: The USPSTF concludes that the evidence is lacking, and the balance of benefits and harms of screening for cognitive impairment cannot be determined. RECOMMENDATION: The USPSTF concludes that the current evidence is insufficient to assess the balance of benefits and harms of screening for cognitive impairment in older adults. (I statement).

doi.org/10.1001/jama.2020.0435Open accessPubMed 32096858Industry & policy