Deciphering the 3Ds: Depression, Delirium, and Dementia

Presented by Jeanette E. Benigas

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Video Runtime: 45 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 56 Minutes

Navigate the intricate landscape of mental health in older adults with Deciphering the 3Ds: Depression, Delirium, and Dementia. Addressing a critical practice gap, this course recognizes the challenge healthcare professionals face in distinguishing between depression, delirium, and dementia. The course provides a comprehensive understanding of these distinct conditions, empowering professionals to expedite diagnosis and treatment, ultimately reducing the risk of morbidity. The course aims to equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge needed to differentiate and manage depression, delirium, and dementia effectively. By delving into hallmark symptoms and exploring the unique roles of various medical providers, participants will gain valuable insights into optimizing patient care. Join us on a journey to decipher the 3Ds, empowering healthcare professionals to make timely and accurate distinctions in mental health conditions and provide holistic care for older adults.

Meet your instructor

Jeanette E. Benigas

Jeanette E. Benigas is the owner of Safe Swallowing Diagnostics, a mobile FEES company serving eastern Ohio and western Pennsylvania. Her extensive clinical experience has included work with adults in acute care, inpatient rehabilitation, post-acute rehabilitation, long-term care, home health, and outpatient settings.…

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Chapters & learning objectives

Identifying Depression, Delirium, and Dementia

1. Identifying Depression, Delirium, and Dementia

In this chapter, participants delve into the distinct hallmark symptoms of each condition, exploring causes and prognoses. The comprehensive content covers the key signs and symptoms of depression, delirium, and dementia, accompanied by insightful short case examples that illustrate the nuances of each mental health condition.

Delirium Superimposed on Dementia (DSD)

2. Delirium Superimposed on Dementia (DSD)

In this chapter, participants gain insights into recognizing the nuanced interplay of delirium within a dementia context. The content highlights crucial factors to be aware of for recognition, addresses challenges in assessment and diagnosis, and provides a compelling case example that illustrates the complexities of diagnosing delirium superimposed on dementia.

The Impact on Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)

3. The Impact on Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)

In this chapter, participants gain a profound understanding of how depression can exacerbate the challenges posed by diagnoses of delirium and/or dementia in older adults. The content explores the intricate ways in which depression influences and magnifies the impact on ADLs, shedding light on the interconnected complexities of mental health and daily functioning in the elderly.

Roles of the Care Team in Management of Depression, Delirium, and Dementia

4. Roles of the Care Team in Management of Depression, Delirium, and Dementia

In this chapter, participants explore the multifaceted contributions of the care team in addressing these mental health conditions. The content delves into diagnostic roles, pharmaceutical and behavioral management strategies, the valuable contributions of rehabilitation (PT/ST/OT), and the crucial aspect of family education, providing a comprehensive overview of the collaborative efforts required for effective care and support.

Case Study

5. Case Study

In this chapter, participants engage with a comprehensive case study that intricately weaves together the hallmark symptoms of depression, delirium, and dementia. This exploration not only allows readers to identify these symptoms but also facilitates an understanding of the potential risk, progression, and impact on ADLs in older adults diagnosed with these complex mental health conditions.