Deterioration in cognitive function that is severe enough to affect daily life is referred to as dementia. Memory loss is a common symptom of dementia, but the condition also affects language, problem-solving, and the ability to focus and pay attention. Geriatric cognitive disorders refer to a decline in cognitive function that occurs as a person ages. These disorders can include dementia as well as other conditions such as mild cognitive impairment.

Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and Lewy body dementia are only a few of the numerous causes of dementia. Alzheimer's disease is the underlying cause of dementia in 60 to 80 percent of cases. It is a chronic condition that impairs the brain's capacity for information processing and storage. Damage to the blood arteries that supply the brain leads to vascular dementia. This harm can result in a loss of cognitive ability and raise the risk of stroke. Lewy body dementia is a chronic condition that impairs behavior, thinking, and mobility.

Memory loss, communication difficulties, trouble with everyday chores, changes in mood and behavior, and problems with spatial awareness are just a few of the symptoms of dementia. The person may grow increasingly reliant on others' care as the illness worsens. Although dementia cannot be cured, there are therapies that can assist to control its symptoms. These include medications, therapy, and support for the person and their family. In addition, there are also lifestyle changes that can help to reduce the risk of developing dementia, such as eating a healthy diet, staying physically active, and staying mentally active.

The prevalence of dementia is anticipated to rise as the population ages. It's crucial to study and have a deeper understanding of dementia and geriatric cognitive problems so that we are better equipped to support and care for persons who are suffering from these ailments.

Dementia and psychology

Dementia is not only a medical condition, but it also has significant psychological implications for the person affected by it, as well as for their family and caregivers. Some of the psychological effects of dementia include:

Memory loss: Difficulty remembering recent events, people, and places can be distressing and can lead to feelings of confusion, frustration, and anxiety.

Changes in mood and behavior: People with dementia may experience mood swings, depression, agitation, or aggression. In addition, they could become apathetic or lose interest in things they enjoyed in the past.

Communication difficulties: People with dementia may have difficulty expressing themselves or understanding speech, which can lead to feelings of isolation and alienation.

Loss of independence: As the disease progresses, people with dementia may need assistance with daily activities and may have to rely on others for care. This can lead to feelings of helplessness, frustration, and loss of self-esteem.

Best Psychologists in India can play a vital role in helping people with dementia and their caregivers to cope with the psychological effects of the condition. They can provide support and counseling, helps with communication and problem-solving, and teaches caregivers techniques for managing difficult behaviors. They can also help people with dementia to maintain their sense of identity and self-worth and to find meaning and purpose in their lives.

Geriatric Cognitive Disorders

Geriatric cognitive disorders refer to a group of conditions that affect cognitive function in older adults. These disorders include Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and Lewy body dementia. These disorders can cause memory loss, difficulty with language, disorientation, and changes in mood and behavior.

The psychological and emotional health of elderly persons is the subject of the psychology discipline known as geriatrics. Geriatric psychologists work with older adults to address issues related to aging, such as retirement, loneliness, and health problems. They also work with older adults who have cognitive disorders to help them cope with the emotional and social challenges of the disorder and to maintain their sense of self-worth.

It is important to note that cognitive decline is a normal part of aging, and not all older adults will develop cognitive disorders. However, early diagnosis and treatment can help to slow the progression of the disorder and improve the quality of life for older adults.

Counseling for Geriatric Cognitive Disorders

An online counsellor who specializes in geriatric cognitive disorders, also known as a geriatric neuropsychologist, can help older adults who are experiencing cognitive decline or have been diagnosed with a cognitive disorder. They can provide a variety of services to help with the emotional and psychological effects of the disorder and to help maintain the person's independence and quality of life.

Some of the services that a geriatric neuropsychologist may provide include:

Cognitive and neuropsychological evaluations: These evaluations can help to identify specific cognitive deficits and strengths, and can be used to diagnose a cognitive disorder.

Counseling and therapy: Geriatric neuropsychologists can provide counseling and therapy to help older adults cope with the emotional and psychological effects of the disorder, such as depression, anxiety, and changes in self-esteem.

Caregiver support: Geriatric neuropsychologists can provide support and guidance for family members and caregivers of older adults with cognitive disorders.

Rehabilitation: Geriatric neuropsychologists can provide cognitive rehabilitation to help older adults improve their cognitive function and maintain their independence.

Medication management: Geriatric neuropsychologists can work with physicians to manage medications for older adults with cognitive disorders and monitor for side effects.

Geriatric neuropsychologists work in collaboration with other healthcare professionals such as geriatricians, neurologists, and primary care physicians to provide comprehensive care for older adults with cognitive disorders.

Contributed by: Dr (Prof) R K Suri, Clinical Psychologist, Counsellor, & Life Coach & Ms Aditi Bhardwaj, Psychologist