What is a Neurocognitive Disorder?

Summary

Neurocognitive disorders are conditions that cause problems with thinking and memory. They happen because of a medical problem, not a mental illness. There are three main types: delirium, mild neurocognitive disorder, and major neurocognitive disorder.

Frequently Asked Questions
Science Person Definition
Treatment for Neurocognitive Disorder
Symptoms of Neurocognitive Disorder
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Frequently Asked Question

What causes neurocognitive disorders?

Neurocognitive disorders can result from various factors, including brain injuries, genetic predispositions, certain illnesses like Alzheimer’s disease, and even environmental influences.

Can adults develop neurocognitive disorders?

Yes, neurocognitive disorders can affect individuals of all ages. While some are associated with aging, others might result from medical conditions, injuries, or genetic factors that impact cognitive function.

How can I communicate effectively with someone who has a neurocognitive disorder?

Use clear and simple language, maintain a calm and patient tone, and rely on visual cues or gestures to aid understanding.

Can lifestyle factors impact the development of neurocognitive disorders?

Yes, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet, social engagement, and cognitive stimulation can contribute to reducing the risk of developing certain neurocognitive disorders.

Scientific Definition

Neurocognitive disorders (NCDs) are a group of conditions characterized by a significant decline in one or more areas of cognitive function, such as complex attention, executive function, learning and memory, language, perceptual-motor function, or social cognition. These disorders are caused by a medical disease or condition other than a primary psychiatric disorder. According to the American Psychiatric Association, the prevalence of major NCD due to Alzheimer’s disease in the United States is 1-2% at age 65 and as high as 30% by age 85.

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Treatment for Neurocognitive Disorder

Discover effective strategies to support and uplift children with neurocognitive disorders. Here are some valuable approaches:

Structured Routines: Set up consistent daily routines to provide stability.
Visual Aids: Use visual schedules and cues to aid understanding and independence.
Communicative Tools: Integrate augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) methods to enhance expression.
Positive Reinforcement: Employ rewards and praise to encourage desired behaviors.
Skill-Building Apps: Utilize interactive apps like Goally to foster language, routines, and emotional skills.
Therapeutic Interventions: Engage in speech, occupational, or behavioral therapies tailored to individual needs.

Children with neurocognitive disorders can experience significant progress with consistent support and interventions. While challenges may persist, early interventions and ongoing strategies can enhance their quality of life and enable them to achieve their full potential.

Symptoms of Neurocognitive Disorder

Symptoms of neurocognitive disorders in children can vary depending on the specific type and underlying cause. Some common signs to watch for include:

Cognitive changes	Memory problems, difficulty concentrating, slow thinking
Language issues	Trouble finding words, understanding speech
Behavioral changes	Irritability, agitation, apathy, impulsivity
Motor symptoms	Clumsiness, tremors, weakness, balance problems

If you notice any of these symptoms in your child, it’s important to talk to their pediatrician. Early diagnosis and intervention can make a big difference in supporting your child’s development and quality of life.

This post was originally published on August 16, 2023. It was updated on June 14, 2024.