neurologic changes with aging and dementia Flashcards
normal age-related changes (5)
atrophy of cells in the cortex decreased cerebral blood flow decrease in synaptic transmission changes in the spinal cord and peripheral nerve transmission age related tremors
typically, changes do not show up until the mid-60s; significant decline affecting everyday life does not show until the early 80s. t or f
true
older adults use this strategy for memory, rather than memorization used by younger adults
context-based strategies
attention decreases with age. T or F
true
the 3 D’s of cognitive disorders
delirium
depression
dementia
a state of temporary confusion and loss of mental function; an acute disorder, potentially reversible
delirium
Lack of interest or pleasure in all activities, lasting for at least 2 weeks
depression
standardized test for depression in older adults
geriatric depression scale
decline in cognitive function can be measured with the
MMSE
An acquired disorder of cognitive and behavioral dysfunction
dementia
Only about 10% of the population over 65 have dementia. t or f
True
strongest risk factor for dementia
age
risk factors for dimentia
age family history race heart health obesity education level
the idea that people with more educated (and thus more developed) brains have an increased ability to compensate for declines in brain structure as people
cognitive reserve
Dementia or severe memory loss that interferes with daily life is a normal part of aging. t or f
false
dementia is a syndrome, not a diagnosis. t or f
true
4 truths about dementia
part of the brain is dying
it cant be fixed
it is constantly changing
all dementias are terminal
typically this is the first sign of dementia
memory loss
in stage 2 dementia (early) this starts to happen
forgetting names and where objects are
stage ______ mild cognitive impairment becomes noticeable
3
At this stage, individuals may start to become socially withdrawn and show changes in personality and mood. Denial of symptoms as a defense mechanism is commonly seen in stage ______
4
The main sign of stage ____ dementia is the inability to remember major details such as the name of a close family member or a home address.
5
When the patient begins to forget the names of their children, spouse, or primary caregivers, and are have difficulty sleeping they are most likely entering stage ____ of dementia and will need full-time care.
6
Along with the loss of motor skills, patients will progressively lose the ability to speak during the course of stage ______ dementia. In the final stage, the brain seems to lose its connection with the body. Severe dementia frequently entails the loss of all verbal and speech abilities. Loved ones and caregivers will need to help the individual with walking, eating, and using the bathroom.
7
