Recognizing and Preventing the 3 Ds: Delirium, Dementia & Depression

Elderly patients are at high risk for depression and cognitive disorders. As the population ages, many older adults will suffer one or more of the three D's: delirium, dementia, and depression. Because signs and symptoms overlap, distinguishing one from the others isn't always easy. Yet an accurate assessment is essential because treatments depend on the diagnosisListen is as Evalyn Michira, MSN, RN, Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist at Aspirus Health System, helps families of elderly patients learn what to look for to recognize the 3 Ds: Delirium, Dementia & Depression, so that the best help for their loved one may be administered.