A patient's spouse states, "I've noticed that my spouse doesn't sleep well anymore and sometimes can't find the right words." What is the most appropriate response by the nurse?
1. "How long have you noticed these changes?"
2. "Does anyone in your family have Alzheimer disease?"
3. "These are common changes associated with age."
4. "Do you think your spouse is depressed?"
Correct Answer: 1
Many older adults experience mild problems with memory, but do not have AD. Careful evaluation of the older adult is done in order to avoid misdiagnosing dementia in these cases. Family history is important to note, but a diagnosis of Alzheimer disease is made by eliminating all physiological factors first. Assuming these are age-related changes is inappropriate. Although depression is underdiagnosed in the elderly patient and is sometimes mistaken for Alzheimer disease, a thorough evaluation must be made before making a diagnosis.
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