Assessment of Language Function in Dementia

David F. Tang-Wai, MDCM, FRCPC, Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto; University Health Network Memory Clinic, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON.
Naida L. Graham, PhD, Research Associate, Department of Speech-Language Pathology, University of Toronto; University Health Network Memory Clinic, University of Toronto; Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, Toronto, ON.

Impairment in language is a common finding among individuals with dementia and can be a presenting symptom, particularly in Alzheimer’s dementia and primary progressive aphasia. Early recognition of language dysfunction can help with an accurate diagnosis, management, and prognosis. There are numerous established and validated language evaluation protocols. This article provides a simple means for the primary care physician to identify and evaluate language disorders in dementia, but it is not meant to replace established protocols.
Key words: aphasia, dementia, primary progressive aphasia, semantic dementia, Alzheimer’s disease.