Daisy McAndrew and Annabel James speak with Dr Simon Adelman, consultant psychiatrist and leading expert in cognitive health and mental health. In this episode we find out what cognitive impairment is, how it can affect our family and friends and practical advice on symptoms, prevention and treatment. Dr Adelman explains physical ailments that can lead to confusion and mental health concerns, the signs to look out for and treatments available. We learn about memory clinics for those concerned about Dementia. And the importance of doing what you love to keep in good mental shape in older age.
Dr Adelman can be found here: Halycon Doctors
You can also find this Age Space Podcast episode and more on Apple Podcasts.
Cognitive Impairment in older people
Recognising & addressing cognitive impairment. There is an increasing recognition of mental health issues in older adults, including dementia. It’s important to consult a GP for any health concerns, physical or mental. There is an overlap between mental illnesses and physical conditions, such as delirium, which can be caused by infections or other medical issues.
There’s a difference between acute (sudden onset) and chronic (long-term) cognitive issues. Acute conditions, such as delirium, are often caused by physical conditions like infections and can be treated with antibiotics. Common symptoms of acute cognitive issues include disorientation, anxiety, hallucinations, and physical symptoms like urinary incontinence. Chronic conditions, such as dementia, develop over a longer period and require different approaches for diagnosis and treatment.
Dr. Simon Adelman differentiates between lifelong depression and depression symptoms that develops in older age. He explains that depression can be a symptom of dementia or other physical conditions, and it can be exacerbated by life changes like retirement or bereavement. It’s advised to seeki medical help if symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, cause significant distress, or interfere with daily functioning.
There is a process of diagnosing dementia, including memory testing, blood tests, and brain scans. Memory clinics, which are part of older adult mental health services, conduct these assessments and provide diagnoses. Early diagnosis and treatment can slow down the progression of dementia.
Dr. Adelman provides practical tips for maintaining mental health, including addressing hearing and vision problems.He emphasizes the importance of controlling vascular risk factors, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, to reduce the risk of dementia. He also recommends engaging in activities that are enjoyable and mentally stimulating for maintaining cognitive resilience.
There is a link between sensory health (hearing and vision) and the risk of dementia. The brain is a muscle that needs stimulation to stay healthy, and sensory input is essential for this. Addressing hearing and vision problems can help prevent or slow down the onset of dementia.
While there is no cure for dementia, treatments can slow down its progression and improve quality of life. There needs to be better awareness and access to mental health services for older adults.
For more information, please go to www.agespace.org , or if you would like more information about Dr Simon Adelman, and the services provided by Halcyon Doctors, please visit https://halcyondoctors.com
Get in touch with Age & Stage
You can email the show at [email protected],
Record a voice note here: https://www.speakpipe.com/ageandstage
WhatsApp us – 07982 360113
Please share Age & Stage with a friend, or someone you know who would be helped by the information in this series. You can send them this link: https://pod.link/1798413657
More information on all this and more at www.agespace.org
