Helen is a 72-year old widow who immigrated to America 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 indicate cognitive decline over a period of years, which is consistent with Alzheimer's disease. Her symptoms also include memory impairment, language impairment, and complete dependence on others for self-care. Vascular neurocognitive disorder involves a history of stroke or evidence of significant cerebrovascular disease, which is not mentioned in the scenario. Delirium is characterized by an acute and fluctuating change in cognition, which does not fit Helen's history of gradual cognitive decline. Neurocognitive disorder not otherwise specified is a catch-all diagnosis used when symptoms do not fit the criteria for any specific type of neurocognitive disorder, which is not the case here.

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