Which of the following older adults is most likely to have his or her health problem characterized as delirium rather than dementia?

Question

A) Mr. L, whose wife has brought him to the emergency department because of the forgetfulness and confusion that he has exhibited over the last 48 hours.
B) Mrs. O, whose children state that her personality has changed markedly and who has difficulty finding words lately.
C) Mr. J, who has developed an unsteady and awkward gait coupled with uncoordinated motor skills in recent months.
D) Mrs. Y, who was diagnosed with a brain tumor and who has experienced consequent changes in behavior and cognition.

Answer 1

A
Feedback:
A rapid onset of cognitive changes is indicative of delirium. Personality and language changes, deterioration in motor skills, and changes attributable to an organic change such as a tumor are more closely associated with dementia.