Helen is a 72-year old widow who immigrated to Canada from Poland at the age of 11. About ten years ago, even though she was otherwise healthy, her family began to notice small slips in her memory, which included forgetting people's names and dates as well as repeating herself numerous times during the course of a conversation. Gradually, these slips worsened to the point that Helen would go out for a walk and find herself across town without having any idea how she got there or how to get back home. Worried for her safety, her family placed her in a nursing home three years ago. Since then, Helen's cognitive decline has only worsened. She does not recognize her family and she has lost the ability to speak in English. Helen now relies completely on others for self-care. Given this information, Helen would most likely be diagnosed with

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Helen's symptoms are consistent with neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's Disease, including the gradual decline in memory and cognitive function, as well as the loss of language ability and ability to care for herself. While vascular neurocognitive disorder may also be a possibility, there is no specific indication that Helen has experienced any significant cardiovascular events or strokes that might suggest a vascular cause. Neurocognitive disorder not otherwise specified is a broad category that may be used in cases where there is cognitive decline, but not a specific cause, which is not the case here. Finally, delirium is typically characterized by sudden changes in cognitive function, confusion, and disorientation, which is not a good fit for Helen's gradual and progressive decline.

Helen Is a 72-Year Old Widow Who Immigrated to Canada