Sample interview questions: How do you approach the assessment and treatment of older adults with neurocognitive disorders?
Sample answer:
- Comprehensive Assessment:
- Gather detailed history, including medical, psychosocial, and cognitive aspects.
- Administer comprehensive neuropsychological tests to assess cognitive functioning.
- Evaluate functional abilities, such as activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs).
-
Consider cultural and linguistic factors that may influence assessment results.
-
Differential Diagnosis:
- Accurately differentiate between neurocognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, vascular dementia, and frontotemporal dementia.
-
Rule out other conditions that may mimic dementia, such as depression, delirium, or medication side effects.
-
Treatment Planning:
- Develop a personalized treatment plan based on the individual’s needs and preferences.
-
Collaborate with other healthcare providers, such as neurologists, geriatricians, and social workers, to provide comprehensive care.
-
Pharmacological Interventions:
- Recommend appropriate medications to manage symptoms, such as cholinesterase inhibitors or memantine for Alzheimer’s disease.
- Monitor medication effectiveness and adjust dosage as needed.
-
Consider potential side effects and drug interactions.
-
Non-Pharmacological Interventions:
- Recommend cognitive stimulation therapy, reality orientation therapy, or reminiscence therapy to maintain or improve cognitive functioning.
- Encourage participation in social activities and meaningful occupations to promote e… Read full answer