*OLD AGE DISORDERS

Chapter 16 - Psychological Disorders

OLD AGE DISORDERS

Dementia (General)

• Definition: A gradual loss of cognitive function that involves various cognitive domains including but not limited to:

  • Memory

  • Language

  • Emotions

  • Judgment

  • Planning

  • Spatial orientation

Common Causes of Dementia:

• Alzheimer's Disease: The most common cause of dementia, accounting for approximately 60% of dementia cases.

• Parkinson's Disease

• Huntington's Disease

• Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease

• Stroke

• High Blood Pressure

Symptoms of Dementia:

• Short-Term Memory Loss: Often the first symptom observed.

• Poor Judgment: Impaired decision-making capabilities.

• Confusion: Difficulty in understanding surroundings.

• Nonsensical Remarks: Making statements that do not make logical sense.

• Agitation/Anxiety: Increased levels of distress and anxiety.

• Paranoid Reactions: May exhibit signs of paranoia.

• Note: Not every forgetful person has dementia; it's crucial to look for functional impairment along with a progressive decline in cognitive abilities.

ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE

Overview:

• Percentage of Dementia Cases: Approximately 60% are attributed to Alzheimer's Disease.

Neurological Explanation:

• Pathophysiology:

  • Degeneration of Frontal & Temporal Lobes: Leads to significant cognitive decline.

  • Extreme Damage to Hippocampus: Mainly responsible for memory processing.

Brain Characteristics:

• Plaques: Characterized by the presence of beta-amyloid.

• Neurofibrillary Tangles: Another hallmark of the disease.

Neurochemical Deficits:

• Acetylcholine Destruction: Impairment in the neurotransmitter responsible for memory.

Research Targets:

• Preventing ACh Breakdown: Aimed at maintaining acetylcholine levels.

• Increasing ACh Production: Enhancing endogenous acetylcholine synthesis.

• Stimulating Receptor Activity: Enhancing the response of neurotransmitter receptors.

Symptoms Progression:

• Stages of Decline:

  • Initial decline observed in memory, which further progresses to difficulties in speech and movement.

  • Late Stage Symptoms:

  • Inability to recognize close family members.

  • Total loss of abilities to speak, walk, or swallow.

  • Loss of bladder and bowel function, leading to significant caregiving challenges.

Caregiver Stress:

• Emotional and Logistical Trauma: Caregivers often experience profound emotional distress as they witness the decline of their loved ones.

ADHD vs. Autism (Quick Comparison)