| G1. |
There is evidence of each of the following:
|
| |
(i) |
A decline in memory, which is most evident in the learning
of new information although in more severe cases the recall of previously
learned information may also be affected. The impairment applies to
both verbal and non-verbal material. The decline should be objectively
verified by obtaining a reliable history from an informant, supplemented,
if possible, by neuropsychological tests or quantified cognitive assessments. |
| Mild |
The degree of memory loss is sufficient to interfere
with everyday activities, though not severe enough to be incompatible
with independent living. The main function affected is the learning
of new material. For example, the individual has difficulty in registering,
storing and recalling elements involved in daily living, such as where
belongings have been put, social arrangements, or information recently
imparted by family members. |
| Moderate |
The degree of memory loss represents a serious handicap
to independent living. Only highly learned or very familiar material
is retained. New information is retained only occasionally and very
briefly. Individuals are unable to recall basic information about
their own local geography, what they have recently been doing, or
the names of familiar people. |
| Severe |
The degree of memory loss is characterized by the
complete inability to retain new information. Only fragments of previously
learned information remain. The individual fails to recognize even
close relatives. |
| |
(ii) |
A decline in other cognitive abilities characterized by
deterioration in judgement and thinking, such as planning and organizing,
and in the general processing of information. Evidence for this should
ideally be obtained from an informant and supplemented, if possible,
by neuropsychological tests or quantified objective assessments. Deterioration
from a previously higher level of performance should be established. |
| Mild |
The decline in cognitive abilities causes impaired
performance in daily living, but not to a degree that makes the individual
dependent on others. Complicated daily tasks or recreational activities
cannot be undertaken. |
| Moderate |
The decline in cognitive abilities makes the individual
unable to function without the assistance of another in daily living,
including shopping and handling money. Within the home, only simple
chores can be performed. Activities are increasingly restricted and
poorly sustained. |
| Severe |
The decline is characterized by an absence, or virtual
absence, of intelligible ideation. |
| |
G2. |
Awareness of the environment is preserved. |
| |
G3. |
There is decline in emotional control or motivation, or
a change in social behaviour manifest as at least one of the following:
(a) emotional lability
(b) irritability
(c) apathy
(d) coarsening of social behaviour. |
| |
G4. |
Symptoms in criterion G1 should have been present for
at least six months. |