A better understanding of the effects of
dementia on life expectancy is important because it enables patients and carers to plan for the future and gain access to support services earlier.3 Patients and carers want to understand the illness and be given an early diagnosis so they can make informed decisions.
Women were excluded if they did not plan
on residing in the area for at least 3 y, had a
life expectancy of < 3 y, or suffered from substance abuse, mental illness, or
dementia.