Screening older adults for executive dysfunction.
Studies suggest that executive cognitive dysfunction can more reliably predict loss of autonomy than memory impairment can. Executive cognitive function allows for abstract thought, the planning and taking of actions toward a goal, and adaptation to the unexpected. And because executive function and memory operate in distinct regions of the brain, executive dysfunction can occur even when memory isn't impaired. The detection of executive dysfunction is essential to helping a patient remain as safe and independent as possible. Watch a free video demonstrating best practices for evaluating executive dysfunction in older adults at http://links.lww.com/A326.
Kennedy
Gary J
GJ
Division of General Psychiatry, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA. gkennedy@montefiore.org
Smyth
Carole A
CA
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D009723:Nurse-Patient Relations; D009730:Nursing Assessment / Q000379:methods*; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D014743:Videotape Recording