[Summary of the practice guideline 'Dementia' (second revision) from the Dutch College of General Practitioners].

The general practitioner (GP) should be aware of clues pointing to dementia. The GP can establish the diagnosis himself or refer the patient for extended testing. The diagnosis of dementia focuses on memory impairment, other cognitive impairments and decreased functioning in daily life. For patients with dementia and their relatives, information and advice are more important than medication. The GP must take care aspects into consideration as well as the way patients' relatives cope with the dementia patient. The treatment and care of the patient with dementia and the relatives requires good coordination and collaboration with other health workers.