Understanding the Three D's: Dementia, Delirium and Depression - For Health Care Professionals

Heather McKay, PhD, OT/L, dementia care specialist, will present "Understanding the Three Ds: Dementia, Delirium and Depression." Awareness of the "three Ds" and a willingness to investigate a variety of causes will facilitate improved treatment outcomes for any patient with confusion or an altered mental status. Knowledge of the differences between the three conditions can lead to early detection and treatment, improving life for the individual, their caregivers and the professionals supporting them.

Heather's expertise will engage attendees through clinical story-telling and interactive opportunities. By the end of this program, participants will be able to: 

• Distinguish between dementia, delirium and depression and the causes and prevalence of each
• Recognize the signs and symptoms that overlap across all three conditions, as well as the differences that set them apart
• Identify common scenarios in which combinations of conditions may occur
• Explain why people need a thorough evaluation of any changes in mental status, including those already diagnosed with dementia
• Take the appropriate actions to connect families and individuals to evaluations and resources if dementia, delirium or depression are suspected

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