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9 Early Signs of Dementia in Older Adults

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Medically reviewed by Dr. Mark Hrymoc, M.D.
woman evaluating signs of dementia in older adults

The signs of dementia in older adults can include memory loss, difficulty with planning or problem-solving, confusion with time or place, and changes in mood or personality. These symptoms may initially appear subtle but gradually worsen, significantly affecting daily life and demanding medical attention for proper diagnosis and care. The National Institute on Aging reports that millions have Dementia, but it is not a normal part of aging. Dementia is a disease that affects cognitive abilities. In the mildest stage of Dementia, often in the beginning stages, specific symptoms may appear. In this article, you will learn what dementia is and discover the signs of dementia in older adults. If you or someone you know exhibits one or more symptoms, contact a professional to learn how Neurocognitive treatment can help slow the progression and maintain quality of life. What is Dementia? Dementia is a general term that describes a group …

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BRN Psychological Evaluation

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By Ashley Barnes, M.S. BRN Evaluation As part of a California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) Investigation, a notice called an “Order to Compel a Psychological Evaluation” is sent to the nurse being investigated. These orders can be issued if there has been an alleged complaint of alcohol, drug, or substance abuse. Orders can also be issued if there has been perceived erratic behavior at work. Failure to comply with the order can result in disciplinary action, even a nurse’s license being revoked. Specific requirements for the examiner, which is often a psychiatrist, include: holding a valid, unrestricted license (which includes scope of practice to conduct a clinical diagnostic evaluation), have at least 3 years of experience in providing evaluations of health professionals with substance abuse disorders, and must be pre-approved by the Board. The Psychological Evaluation itself is extensive, often consisting of the chosen medical professional reviewing the Board …

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Senior Mental Health: How to Age Well Mentally and Emotionally

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Medically reviewed by Dr. Mark Hrymoc, M.D.
two people thinking about senior mental health

The technical age for being a senior is 62, or retirement age. Some say 65 makes you a senior, which correlates with the age a person qualifies for Medicare. The World Health Organization identifies seniors as anyone over 60 when discussing mental health. Among that group, 20% struggle with a mental health or neurological disorder.  Americans over 65 make up 16% of the population. Sadly, this population accounts for a higher percentage of total suicides, 19%, according to reports. Unfortunately, substance misuse is also increasing among older adults, with over one million adults over 65 having a substance use disorder. The AARP research team conducted a survey on people 50 and older. In the two weeks before the survey, 45% of the participants reported having anxiety, 31% felt depressed or hopeless, and 52% had sleep disturbances. Symptoms like these reduce quality of life for our seniors. Mental Health and Aging …

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Coping Skills for Adults with Anxiety

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Medically reviewed by Dr. Mark Hrymoc, M.D.
man listening to music, one of many coping skills for adults with anxiety

When anxiety hits, it can seem like an eternity until your symptoms subside. Many times you aren’t sure why you are experiencing anxiety, and your brain won’t let you think of positive ways to alleviate your symptoms. You feel like you must wait it out. Fortunately, coping skills for adults with anxiety can help.  Currently, your thoughts and behaviors may lead you to react to stressful situations negatively. Learning coping skills for adults with anxiety means changing your thoughts and behaviors so that you respond rationally and appropriately. If your goal is to cope with anxiety, keep reading to learn how to develop skills to help you succeed.  Understand The Need for Coping Skills for Adults with Anxiety Knowledge can be powerful when fighting anxiety. Sometimes anxiety occurs due to fear of the unknown. If you know why you get anxious, you will find it easier to overcome. Anxiety is …

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Supporting Children’s Mental Health

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By Ashley Barnes, M.S.   Mental Health Concerns in Children   Though many people reflect on childhood as being a care-free time, children are not immune to mental health concerns that plague adults. Some of the most common mental health concerns in children include:   Anxiety: The CDC reports that about 9% of children aged 3 to 17 have been diagnosed with anxiety; still, this doesn’t even reflect all children who struggle with anxiety, just merely those who have been evaluated and diagnosed (CDC, 2023). Signs of childhood anxiety may include ruminating thoughts, situational avoidance that may impact social engagement or school attendance, and panic attacks. Behavior Problems: Roughly 9% of 3-17-year-olds struggle with behavioral concerns that warrant a formal diagnosis (CDC, 2023). Those who have Oppositional Defiant Disorder or Conduct Disorder may disrespect property, engage in harmful acts, or break serious rules. This behavior can be exacerbated by observance …

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