Dementia Management: A Practice Update for Speech-Language Pathologists

Abstract

Most clinicians working with older adults have assessed and treated patients with cognitive-communicative deficits associated with dementia. Dementia management can be challenging at times, even for the most seasoned clinician. This article will provide a framework for dementia management focusing on assessment, treatment, and documentation to ensure that speech-language pathology services are reimbursable by meeting Medicare's definition of reasonable and necessary services as set forth by the Medicare Benefit Policy Manual. The goal of sharing this information is to help clinicians shape management programs to meet the needs of their patients with dementia and ensure compliance with current healthcare regulations.