Dementia vs. Depression in the Elderly

Dementia vs. depression in the elderly

Never assume that a loss of mental sharpness is just a normal sign of old age. It could be a sign of either depression or dementia, both of which are common in older adults and the elderly.

Since depression and dementia share many similar symptoms, including memory problems, sluggish speech and movements, and low motivation, it can be difficult to tell the two apart. There are, however, some differences that can help you distinguish between the two.

Is it Depression or Dementia?
Symptoms of Depression	Symptoms of Dementia
Mental decline is relatively rapid Knows the correct time, date, and where he or she is Difficulty concentrating Language and motor skills are slow, but normal Notices or worries about memory problems	Mental decline happens slowly Confused and disoriented; becomes lost in familiar locations Difficulty with short-term memory Writing, speaking, and motor skills are impaired Doesn’t notice memory problems or seem to care

Whether cognitive decline is caused by dementia or depression, it’s important to see a doctor right away. If it’s depression, memory, concentration, and energy will bounce back with treatment. Treatment for dementia will also improve you or your loved one’s quality of life. And in some types of dementia, symptoms can be reversed, halted, or slowed.

Don't Be Down On Your Memory!

If you're not careful, you can be your own worst enemy when it comes to remembering things. The power of positive thinking is real - and so is the power of negative thinking. If you continually tell yourself you have a bad memory, eventually you will start to believe it!

The next time you catch yourself thinking negatively about your memory, just stop. Instead, actively shift your internal dialogue in a more positive direction. Tell yourself, "I can remember this material. I can do this!"

Non Disclosure of Errors in Nursing Homes

Nurses have an obligation to disclose an error when one occurs. While errors should be avoided as much as possible, the reality is the health care delivery system is not and will never be perfect: errors and adverse events are an inevitable part of care.

In the study “Nurses’ Perceptions of Error Reporting and Disclosure in Nursing Homes,” published in the January 2012 issue of the Journal of Nursing Care Quality, the authors found the majority of registered nurse respondents reported error disclosure and responding to be a difficult process in their workplaces. The study has implications to improve nursing education, policy, and patient safety culture in the nursing home setting.

Multiple barriers exist that might inhibit disclosure; almost one-third of the respondents were less likely to disclose if they believed they might be sued or reprimanded. In addition, respondents believed that current efforts toward educating and supporting nurses with regard to errors were inadequate.

Adapted by Teresa L. Jepsen from original press release, New York University

Commentary:

Perhaps increased procedural support and potential legal protection of nursing staff would encourage transparent communications resulting in improved care and safety for patients.

Teresa L. Jepsen

Thanks Grandma Marie

Welcome to the first blog of Trusted Senior Placement Inc.

My first post is dedicated to Grandma Marie Jepsen who started me on the road to dedicating my professional life to the care and well-being of Seniors. My first job out of college was taking care of Grandma Marie, my husband's grandmother while I was pursuing a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Counseling. She delighted me by playing the piano and discussing her life when she was a child and young bride. One day I received the call that Grandma Marie had fallen and been taken to the hospital. She broke her hip and had to have surgery. Though it was difficult to watch her go through this ordeal, I admired the true concern and dedication of the staff at the rehabilitation center. Eventually I took a position there in Social Services and switched my Master's program to Gerontology. Though Grandma Marie has passed on, I hope she would be pleased knowing that she had such an impact on my life, shaping my future and my passion to reach out to the senior community.

Post by: Teresa L. Jepsen