Functional Cognition Part 1: Impairment & Dementia
Presented by Jennifer Bottomley
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This course is part of our GCS Prep-Program. Learn more about the full prep-program here: MedBridge GCS Prep-Program.
Older Adults have always wanted to remain in their home as long as possible. A recent trend in health care and funding focusing on home care rather than admission to a nursing facility makes this possible more than ever before. Home Care Nurses, Occupational and Physical Therapists, and other Home Care Providers will be increasingly asked to be involved in the care of these persons and assist with living situation decisions. This presentation will discuss important aspects of helping older adults stay in their home: cognition, home safety, screening, preventive interventions and resources. The participant will develop an understanding of the relationship between balance, cognition, aging, and the risk for falls. Selection of appropriate interdisciplinary assessment tools to screen for cognitive risk factors will be discussed. Intervention models to guide reduction of fall risks and safety related issues in the environment will be discussed. The impact of physical changes, fear of falling, and cognitive decline will be presented. At the completion of this educational session the participant will be able to select appropriate intervention approaches to address cognitive risk factors, reduce falls, assist the primary caregiver and enhance safe and independent community living.
Meet your instructor
Jennifer Bottomley
Jennifer M. Bottomley, PT, MS, PhD, embodies the characteristics of leadership, having worked on committees and task forces and behind the scenes to advance the goals and vision of the profession of physical therapy for 40 years. Bottomley is an independent geriatric rehabilitation program consultant, advisor, and educator.…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. Mild Cognitive Impairment & Reversible Dementia
Appreciating the role of cognition in the older adult has important relevance for assessing safety in the home and community. Differentiating between typical aging and memory, mild cognitive impairment, and confusion/delirium, as well as the potential etiologies of these presentations, can help with assessment. Using the Mini Mental State Exam as a cognitive screening tool will be explained by way of patient demonstration. Finally, understanding the different functional domains of cognition and memory in the older adult can help the treating clinician hone in on where potential problems may reside.
2. Pathological Manifestations of the Aging Brain
Understanding the pathological manifestations of the aging brain and its impact on cognition is important for the treating clinician in order to provide optimal care. Having a clear understanding of the spectrum of cognitive impairment, from confusion to dementia, allows the therapist to more effectively direct treatment, and help improve quality of life for this population.
3. Pathological Manifestations Part Two
Understanding the pathophysiology and clinical features of Lewy Body dementia, Huntington’s disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, and normal pressure hydrocephalus is important for the therapist working with the older adult. Though all have a common connection to dementia, clinical presentation will be markedly different. Being able to distinguish the specific signs and symptoms can help direct care, and ultimately improve quality of life for this population. Additionally, understanding the features of acute or reversible dementia is important for the treating clinician in order to properly refer these patients to the appropriate medical providers.
