Cognitive key question

• What is the key question?

  How can we use our understanding of memory to help patients with dementia?
• What are some symptoms of dementia?

  > Frequent memory loss

  > Problems with language

  > Loss of initiative

  > Changes in mood

  > Disorientation with time and places
• How is dementia degenerative?

  > No cure

  > Progressive

  > Patients ability to remember, understand and reason will gradually decline
• What are some statistics for dementia? (AO1)

  > Mortality rates have more than doubled

  > Costs the UK £25 billion annually

  > 850,000 people suffer with dementia

  > 55 million people worldwide

  > 10 million diagnosed each year

  > 2:1 women:men

  > Funding from the charities averages to £40 million
• How can the working memory model help patients with dementia?

  > Support patients with their daily routine by making sure instructions are presented without any distractions

  > e.g. directing them to take medication, should be done with no background noise like the TV

  > WMM states it isn't possible to do two language tasks simultaneously
• How can the knowledge of semantic memory help patients with dementia?

  > Important to understand which part of the brain is damaged and the type of memory loss

  > Damage to temporal lobes will affect semantic memory (trouble recalling facts)

  > Using memory aids like visual reminders will help
• How can the knowledge of episodic memory help patients with dementia?

  > As memory deteriorates, focus on conversations about personal events

  > Episodic memory is often unaffected by dementia

  > Reduces stress as it doesn't require them to recall specific facts

  > Diaries and pictures of family could be a useful reminder
• How can rehearsal help patients with dementia?

  > Multi store model

  > Strengthens the patients memory trace

  > Ensures information is stored long term

  > e.g. taking the same route to the shop each time