Neurocognitive Disorders and Psychosocial Needs of the Older Adult (copy)

Neurocognitive Disorders

Disorders that primarily affect cognitive function, such as memory, problem-solving, and language, often seen in older adults.

Dementia

A slow developing, progressive impairment of intellectual or cognitive functions that gradually worsens and significantly interferes with daily functioning.

Delirium

Sudden and acute changes in cognitive functioning with identifiable underlying causes, often reversible.

Apraxia

Difficulty initiating and executing purposive motor movements despite intact motor strength, often affecting daily living activities.

Agnosia

Impaired ability to interpret sensations or recognize familiar objects or sounds despite functioning sensory organs.

Aphasia

A language disorder affecting communication ability due to damage in areas of the brain responsible for speech and language.

Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)

A noticeable but non-debilitating decline in cognitive abilities that does not interfere with daily activities to the extent of dementia.

Alzheimer’s Disease

The most common cause of dementia, characterized by progressive degeneration of brain cells due to amyloid plaques and tau tangles.

Vascular Dementia (VaD)

Dementia caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often due to strokes, leading to cognitive decline.

Lewy Bodies Disease (LBD)

A type of dementia characterized by abnormal protein deposits in the brain, leading to cognitive fluctuations and motor symptoms.

Frontal Temporal Disease (FTD)

A type of dementia involving degeneration of the frontal and temporal lobes, affecting personality, behavior, and language.

Alcohol-Induced Dementia

Cognitive impairment resulting from long-term alcohol abuse, particularly in older adults due to physiological changes with aging.

Ageism

Prejudice or discrimination against individuals based on their age, often negatively affecting older adults.

Elder Abuse

Abuse or neglect of older adults, typically by caregivers or family members, including physical, emotional, and financial harm.

Polypharmacy

The concurrent use of multiple medications, often seen in older adults, increasing risks of adverse interactions and side effects.

Sundown Syndrome

Increased confusion and agitation in older adults during the late afternoon and evening hours.

Communication Strategies for Aphasia

Techniques used to aid communication for individuals with aphasia, including simplicity, patience, and using alternative communication methods.

Psychosocial Issues Related to Aging

Challenges such as depression and anxiety that affect older adults, often exacerbated by isolation, chronic illness, and health concerns.