T3 Old Farts Flashcards
Dementia
Characterized by
- Memory
- Orientation
- Attention
- Language
- Judgement
- Reasoning
Not a normal part of aging
80% cases of dementia caused by
Neuro-Degenerative conditions (Alzheimer’s)
Other 20% caused by strokes and stuff
JOMAC
J-Judgement O-Orientation M-Memory A-Affect C-Cognition
Most common form of dementia
Alzheimer’s- Chronic, progressive, degenerative
Alzheimers affects as many as half of people __ and older
Alzheimers affects as many as half of people 85 and older
Stuff associated with Alzheimers
- Lower SES
- Lower education
- Shit healthcare
- Women
- African/american and hispanics
Alzheimer’s disease patients have two abnormal structures in their brains
Beta plaques
Neuro tangles
Alzheimer’s patients have a decreased release of what neurotransmitter?
Acetylcholine, leading to nerve death and brain atrophy
S/s of Alzheimer’s first noticed in…
Cortex, then hippocampus, 10-20 yr before symptoms.
Memory loss first sign
Early Alzheimer’s
Memory loss
Money trouble
Anxiety
Blame others
PLAN:
Stop driving
Create plan
Use pillbox
Middle Alzheimer’s
Recognizing people Language issues wandering Repetition gait changes
Plan:
Provide incont care
Toileting schedule
Safety
Late Alzheimer’s
Bedridden Weight loss Groaning, moaning B/b control Dependence
PLAN:
Toileting,
watch fluids
Caregiver to provide care
Goals of care for Alzheimer’s patient
Dignity
Independence
Safety
Education
Hallmark of Delirium
Brief episode- 1-7days to one month
Caused usually by medical condition
Treat underlying cause and avoid meds
Depression in older adults
Most common psych problem
Triggered by event or loss, illness, medications
Differentiate confusion from apathy
