Prevention of cognitive impairment: Physician perceptions and practices

The public is increasingly inundated with suggestions on how they can reduce their risk of developing cognitive impairment or dementia and are turning to physicians for advice. This study examines physicians' perceptions and practices related to reducing cognitive impairment or dementia risk. Data from Porter Novelli's 2008 DocStyles survey are used to examine physicians' perceptions and practices related to this issue. About 40% of physicians reported discussing concerns about cognitive impairment often or very often with adult patients without dementia. The majority advised patients to reduce risk through physical activity, mental stimulation, and healthy diet. These data shed light on physicians' perceptions and practices related to reducing cognitive impairmentrisk among their patients. Increased information about this issue may inform development of and access to educational materials to meet physicians' needs to address patient concerns related to reducing cognitive impairment or dementia risk.