FOLLOW-UP FOR ALZHEIMER PATIENTS: EUROPEAN ALZHEIMER DISEASE CONSORTIUM POSITION PAPER

Background and purpose: Alzheimer disease (AD) is one of the leading causes of dependence in the elderly. Providing care for patients with AD is complex and the type of care required depends on the stage of the disease and varies over time. The aim of this article is to discuss available care strategies once the AD diagnosis has been made and to propose a follow-up plan as standard of care at a European level. Methods: The proposals developed in this article stem from the collaborative work of a panel of multidisciplinary experts involved in the care of AD patients (European Alzheimer Disease Consortium) based on the results of published scientific studies and on their experience from clinical practice. Conclusion: Suggestions for follow-up frequency and easily administered and scored assessment tools are provided, thereby increasing efficiency and quality of care for patients with Alzheimer disease