Dementia in older minority populations. Issues of prevalence, diagnosis, and treatment.

Dementia continues to be a major disease that affects older Americans. It has been estimated that up to 25% of all community-dwelling elderly individuals in the United States suffer from signs or symptoms of dementia. Little, however, has been written on dementia as it relates to older minority populations. The purpose of this article is to discuss the prevalence of dementia in elderly minority populations, describe some of the unique issues related to the diagnosis and treatment of dementia in these populations, and make recommendations aimed toward improving the quality of life for elderly minority individuals with dementia.