Abstract
Objective: Conduct a bibliographic review in order to identify the possible etiologies of cognitive impairments in the elderly and their differential diagnoses. Bibliographic review: Dementia is characterized by a gradual impairment of cognitive function that interferes with social and professional activities, since individuals present a greater propensity to the development of functional disabilities, and, in addition, it can cause a reduction in the quality of life of the elderly and their families. The study reveals the existence of a wide variety of etiologies of cognitive impairments in the elderly, being classified into degenerative dementia and non-degenerative dementia. Degenerative (or primary) dementias include Alzheimer's Disease, Lewy Body Dementia and Frontotemporal Dementia, among others. Non-degenerative (or secondary) dementias comprise numerous subtypes, including Vascular Dementia, vitamin deficiency, depression and kidney failure. Final considerations: Cognitive disabilities represent a major public health problem, with significant consequences for the elderly and their families. In view of the wide variety of etiologies of cognitive impairments, knowledge of their differential diagnoses is essential.