La démence sénile en France : une estimation de la charge actuelle et projection des tendances futures.

Abstract

An estimate of the number of persons in France presently suffering from senile dementia has been made using a meta-analysis derived from recent epidemiological studies in conjunction with population statistics from the 1990 INSEE census. The results suggest that the number is less than has previously been estimated, but that significant increases can be expected in coming years if no efficient treatment is found for these disorders and the life expectancy of persons with dementia is not reduced. The importance of these observations in terms of public health planning extends beyond the help required for the elderly dementing person, to the implications of such an epidemic for family care-givers.