Common cognitive issues in home-based medical care

Abstract

Dementia is commonly seen in the elderly population, as it affects up to 40 % of people over 85 years old. The progressive decline in cognitive and physical abilities, often accompanied by behavioral changes, can be devastating. Delirium is a condition affecting cognitive function also encountered with greater frequency among the elderly, but is usually reversible with proper treatment. This chapter aims to assist medical professionals working in the home-based setting in diagnosing both conditions and treating them with both pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic means, while remembering that it is not only the patient but also the caregivers and family who require attention and interventions.