Neurologic Problems

As the population continues to age, clinicians will increasingly encounter neurological conditions in routine clinical practice. Neurological problems in the elderly have a profound impact on quality of life and can at times be life-threatening. Diagnosis and management of geriatric neurological problems is complicated by often vague presentations and the presence of comorbid conditions, as well as complex physiology and pharmacology in this age group. Moreover, when caring for these patients it is of utmost importance to have a holistic approach and include family and caregivers when developing care plans. In this chapter we review muscle weakness, sensory loss, seizure disorders, and headaches in the elderly patient. Causes, impact on quality of life, and available treatment options are discussed. Other topics including delirium, dementia, cerebrovascular disease, and gait disorders will be covered elsewhere.

Keywords

geriatric neurology weakness seizure neuropathy headache

Information

Type: Chapter
Information: Reichel's Care of the Elderly
Clinical Aspects of Aging
, pp. 189 - 207
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/9781108942751.016 [Opens in a new window]
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2022

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Chapter 16 - Neurologic Problems

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