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Age-Associated Memory Impairment: A Suitable Case for Treatment?

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  14 November 2008

Ian J. Deary
Affiliation:
Department of Psychology, University of Edinburgh, 7 George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9JZ, Scotland, UK.

Abstract

The provisional criteria for age-associated memory impairment (AAMI) attempt to define a potentially treatable decline in mental function found in people over 50 years of age. It is suggested here that the present criteria are likely to apply to a large proportion of those over age 50 in the population. From a psychometric viewpoint the criteria have several short-comings that are detailed. Finally, the social and ethical problems of the wider use of such a diagnosis are adumbrated.

Type
Forum
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1995

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