Top Story

Depression in a Patient with Alzheimer’s Disease

cg_coverx.jpg

Case Presentation

Mrs. D is an 85-year-old widowed woman who resides with her granddaughter, Ms. S. Mrs. D was diagnosed with dementia of the Alzheimer’s type 8 months ago and is currently being treated with donepezil 10 mg daily. She also has hypertension, coronary artery disease, and osteoarthritis. Her other medications include losartan 50 mg daily, aspirin 81 mg daily, and acetaminophen 650 mg 3 times daily. Mrs. D receives 4 hours daily of home attendant services 5 days per week. Ms. S moved in with her 6 months ago to help with her care. Mrs. D raised her granddaughter after her mother was sent to prison for drug-related crimes. Ms. S is very devoted to her grandmother, but works long hours as an event planner.

Online Exclusive

Alcoholic Ketoacidosis—Underrecognized Cause of Metabolic Acidosis in the Elderly

Introduction

The Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reported that substance abuse among adults age 60 years and older is a rapidly growing health problem. The report also stated that in 2000, 17% of Americans age 65 and older had problems with prescription drug and alcohol abuse.1 Most elderly people with alcohol abuse problems have a history of early-life alcohol abuse. However, a significant proportion start drinking later in life in response to traumatic life events such as the death of a loved one, loneliness, pain, insomnia, and retirement. This

Clinical Geriatrics Poll

Try This Series

The General Assessment Try This Series offers assessment tools on a variety of topics relevant to the care of older adults. The How to Try This series is comprised of articles and videos presenting cases studies demonstrating the use of the Try This series.How to Try This articles and videos are listed under their respective Try This article.

Clinical Geriatrics Blogs





CME Resource Center

THE BURDEN OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE AND THE NEED FOR EARLY DIAGNOSIS AND EARLY TREATMENT
CME Resource Center is currently being updated. Check back soon.