ASSESSMENT OF ACUTE AND REVERSIBLE CHANGES
American Psychological Association
Table of Contents
Why Practitioners Need Information
Sometimes persons present with a rapid change in mental abilities as
evidenced in a delirium (acute confusional state). A wide variety of factors
may affect cognitive abilities in older adults. Family members or residential
staff are often important sources of information regarding premorbid and
current cognitive functioning.
- A review of the medical record and drug regime (prescribed, nonprescribed) and consultation with a physician or other primary health care provider is usually a first step in evaluating acute cognitive changes.
- Repeat testing in the acute phases may be necessary to help monitor improvement or deterioration in cognitive functioning.
