Depression, Delirium, Dementia: The 3 D's in a Complex Patient
Presented by Teepa Snow
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As people age, their brains become more vulnerable to chemical changes, damage, and disease. Recognizing the differences among changes that signal an acute illness or medical emergency, symptoms of a mood or emotional condition, or a chronic, progressive, and terminal condition that will eventually rob a person of their cognitive abilities is vital in providing the best possible care and responding effectively when changes are noted. This course will provide some basic signs to differentiate between the three Ds: Delirium, Depression, and Dementia.
Meet your instructor
Teepa Snow
Teepa Snow is an advocate for those living with dementia and has made it her personal mission to help families and professionals better understand how it feels to be living with such challenges and seeks to change and improve life for everyone involved. Her practice has included everything from neuro-intensive care units in…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. A Complex Individual
In this session, we will look at a real-life scenario to determine which of the three major symptoms are being exhibited in one person. Note taking is encouraged as this chapter will be referenced throughout the rest of the course.
2. An Introduction to the 3 D's
In this session, we will review the meaning of each of the terms delirium, depression, and dementia. Additionally, we will highlight common relationships among the three conditions.
3. Understanding the 3 D's - Which Is Which? How Do You Know?
Each of the three Ds has a different pattern on a number of variables. It is essential that the clinician determine which conditions are present, share this information with a medical advisor, and assess and intervene with the person to contribute to their immediate as well as longer term quality of life and well-being. In this session we will review characteristics for each, preparing to determine more accurately which is which in the second part of this course.