CSS Memory Care & Cognitive Decline Flashcards

What are the three core domains affected in Alzheimer's disease?

Answer: Memory, language, and executive function

Alzheimer's disease primarily impairs memory (especially recent memory), language and communication, and executive functions like planning and judgment.

Which validated screening tool is widely used to detect cognitive impairment in clinical settings?

Answer: Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE)

The MMSE is a 30-point questionnaire testing orientation, registration, attention, recall, language, and visuospatial ability to screen for cognitive impairment.

What distinguishes Lewy body dementia from Alzheimer's disease?

Answer: Lewy body dementia features visual hallucinations, fluctuating cognition, and Parkinsonian motor symptoms

Lewy body dementia is characterized by visual hallucinations, fluctuating cognitive function, REM sleep behavior disorder, and Parkinsonian features like tremor.

What is 'validation therapy' in dementia care?

Answer: Acknowledging and empathizing with the feelings behind a dementia patient's communications

Validation therapy, developed by Naomi Feil, focuses on empathizing with the emotional content of a person with dementia's communication rather than correcting factual errors.

Which non-pharmacological intervention is considered first-line for managing agitation in dementia?

Answer: Environmental modifications and sensory-based activities

Non-pharmacological approaches including environmental modifications, structured activities, music, and caregiver communication techniques are recommended as first-line treatment for dementia-related agitation.

What does the '10 Early Signs of Alzheimer's' by the Alzheimer's Association include as the most common first sign?

Answer: Memory loss that disrupts daily life

The Alzheimer's Association identifies memory loss that disrupts daily life—especially forgetting recently learned information—as the most common early sign of Alzheimer's.