Neurocognitive Disorders Overview

Flashcards covering key concepts about neurocognitive disorders, including delirium, major and mild neurocognitive disorders, their causes, symptoms, treatments, and prevention.

What are neurocognitive disorders primarily characterized by?

Affect learning, memory, attention, language, motor behavior, and consciousness.

What are the common causes of neurocognitive disorders?

Aging, medical conditions, abnormal brain structures, drug use, and environmental factors.

What is delirium?

A temporary confusion and disorientation.

What differentiates major neurocognitive disorder from mild neurocognitive disorder?

Major neurocognitive disorder involves broader cognitive deterioration affecting multiple domains.

What are common initial symptoms of major neurocognitive disorder?

Memory and visuospatial skill impairments, agnosia, delusions, apathy, depression, etc.

How frequently are new cases of major neurocognitive disorder identified?

Every 7 seconds.

Which disease accounts for nearly half of neurocognitive disorders?

Alzheimer's Disease.

What is 'sundowner syndrome'?

Symptoms of Alzheimer's disease become more pronounced late in the day.

What protective factor may impact the onset of Alzheimer's disease?

Educational attainment and mental activity build synapses, delaying symptoms.

What role do neurofibrillary tangles have in Alzheimer's disease?

They are abnormal structures found within brain cells associated with the disease.

What is the primary goal of psychological treatments for neurocognitive disorders?

To enhance the lives of patients and their families and teach compensatory skills.

What are some preventive measures for reducing the risk of neurocognitive disorders?

Use of anti-inflammatory medications, controlling blood pressure, leading an active social life.