Neurocognitive Disorders

cognitive functioning

involves complex attention, executive function, learning and memory, language, perceptual-motor skills, and social cognition

delirium

confused state that lies between normal wakefulness and stupor or coma with a sudden onset, disturbance in attention and reduced awareness

Medical cause of delirium

substance intoxication or withdrawal

medication-induced

Mild Neurocognitive Disorder

modest cognitive decline in one or more cognitive domains and there is no interference with ability to function

Major Neurocognitive Disorder (Dementia)

significant cognitive decline in one or more cognitive domains with interference in ability to function

Major or Mild Neurocognitive Disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease

have major or mild neurocognitive disorder and an insidious onset and gradual progression of impairment

Alzheimer’s disease etiology

genetics

loss of cells that make acetylcholine

plaques and tangles

Alzheimer’s disease treatment

it is progressive and fatal with no cure, therefore the treatment goals are

prevention

delay the symptoms for a better quality of life

coping and support once symptoms become severe

Dementia risk factors and prevention

diet, physical activity, cognitive training & social activities, management of metabolic and vascular health

Biological treatment for dementia

acetylcholine agonists

Psychosocial treatment for dementia

memory aids

cognitive games

chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE)

disorder caused by repetitive head trauma usually within sports and has the progression of symptoms, rage, impulsivity, depression, into confusion and memory loss, and finally to advanced dementia