Postgraduate medicine
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Postgraduate medicine · May 1996
ReviewBrain failure in older patients. Uncovering treatable causes of a diminished ability to think.
The term "brain failure" implies only dysfunction of a major organ system, not that an exact diagnosis has been made. Assessment and treatment of older patients with diminished cognitive ability can be challenging; however, the experience can also be extremely rewarding when a reversible condition is alleviated and the patient is given added years of productive life. The first step in patient evaluation is to rule out delirium. ⋯ Finally, extreme care must be taken in making the diagnosis of true dementia. Diagnosis of such a condition (eg, Alzheimer's disease, multi-infarct dementia, dementia of Parkinson's disease) has a profound effect on the patient and the family. These conditions are largely nontreatable, but physicians still have an important role in helping caregivers find appropriate assistance and support.