EP184: Functional Cognitive Disorder vs Alzheimer’s: Key Differences Explained

This Is Getting Old Podcast with Melissa B PhD

“Understanding and addressing Functional Cognitive Disorder (FCD) is an emerging field of science.”

—Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN

It's usually a good idea to get an evaluation when experiencing issues with concentration, attention, or memory. Recognizing the differences between various cognitive disorders is crucial for appropriate management and care.

LEARN ABOUT FUNCTIONAL COGNITIVE DISORDER (FCD)

Functional cognitive disorder (FCD) is an emerging area in brain science. Unlike Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia, FCD involves reported cognitive issues typically without the sensory or motor problems seen in dementia.

IDENTIFY THE SYMPTOMS

Typical symptoms of FCD include memory lapses, word-finding difficulties, and attention issues. These can be worsened by factors such as medications, depression, anxiety, pain, and poor sleep. Unlike dementia, FCD symptoms can fluctuate a lot, and individuals often experience good and bad days in their cognitive abilities.

RECOGNIZE THE DIFFERENCES FROM DEMENTIA

FCD differs from dementia in several ways. People with FCD are often under 65, have higher education levels, and experience symptoms suddenly. The person often reports having much lower cognitive ability from what their neurophyschological assessments show and/or how well they function day-to-day. They are more aware and concerned about these percieved cognitive issues, unlike those with Alzheimer's, who may not realize their cognitive decline.

DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT

Diagnosing FCD involves thorough evaluations similar to those for dementia. However, FCD does not typically get worse over time, unlike progressive disorders like Alzheimer's. Management focuses on treating symptoms such as sleep problems, anxiety, and depression, and using self-help strategies like cognitive behavioral therapy to improve quality of life.

By understanding and addressing FCD, we can provide better support and care for those experiencing cognitive challenges.

RESOURCES

Check out this Fact Sheet from neurosymptoms.org to learn more.

Join AgeWiseU to find and get all of my handouts and related content on Alzheimer’s disease and more at MelissaBPhD.com/join

------------------------------------------------------------------------About MelissaBPhD

Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN. I am a nurse, nurse practitioner with over 25 years of experience caring for older adults and their families.

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