ABSTRACT

A Handbook of Geriatric Neuropsychology: Practice Essentials (Second Edition) brings together experts in the field to integrate the knowledge and skills needed to understand and treat older adults who are experiencing problems with memory and other thinking skills. With three new sections, including coverage of other conditions beyond neuropsychological disorders, special assessment contexts, and more on interventions and ethics, as well as multiple new chapters, and significant updates from the first edition, this book provides a strong foundation for clinicians, educators, and researchers invested in the wellbeing of older adults.

The impact and experience of aging, like the practice of neuropsychology, evolves over time. Similarly, through advances in science and professional techniques, neuropsychological practice has continued to evolve. Neuropsychological evaluation remains the most effective method of diagnosing age-related cognitive decline, cognitive difficulties that result from psychological factors, and other related disorders, as well as determining how the various disorders impact functioning and quality of life. This book explores these areas and offers state-of-the-art assessment techniques to assess changes in cognition and behavior and to distinguish normal changes from neuropathology.

This book is a go-to resource and key reference for psychologists who serve older adults with known or suspected cognitive problems, as well as those who are invested in promoting brain wellness. It provides much of the information needed to establish and improve foundational and functional competencies in geriatric neuropsychology and establish practices that are personally and professionally rewarding, all aimed at promoting the understanding and wellbeing of older adults.

SECTION I: INTRODUCTION Introduction SECTION II: NEUROCOGNITIVE DISORDERS 1. Alzheimer’s Disease 2. Cerebrovascular Disorders and Vascular Dementia 3. Parkinson’s Disease and Dementia with Lewy Bodies 4. Frontotemporal Dementias 5. Traumatic Brain Injury in Older Adults 6. Delirium in Older Adults SECTION III: OTHER CONDITIONS 7. Psychiatric Disorders in Older Adults 8. Sleep, Fatigue, and Pain in Older Adulthood 9. Substance Use Disorders in Older Adults SECTION IV: ASSESSMENT 10. The Clinical Interview 11. Selection and Use of Screening Measures 12. Neuropsychological Batteries for Older Adults 13. Teleneuropsychology and Applications of Technology 14. Symptom and Performance Validity Assessment in Older Adults and Patients with Dementia and Claimed Dementia. 15. Testing accommodations in geriatric neuropsychology 16. Functional Assessment 17. Cultural Considerations in Geriatric Neuropsychology 18. Serial Assessment in the Older Patient SECTION V: SPECIAL ASSESSMENT CONTEXTS 19. The Application of Neuroimaging for Normal and Pathological Aging 20. Assessment of Decision-Making Capacity in Older Adults 21. Forensic Assessment in Geriatric Neuropsychology SECTION VI: INTERVENTION 22. The Relay of Neuropsychological Information: Providing Feedback  23. Neuropsychological Treatment and Wellness Promotion with Older Adults 24. Working with Families 25. Medication Effects on Cognition in Older Adults 26. Working with Geriatric Healthcare Teams: Opportunities for Neuropsychologists SECTION VII: ETHICAL AND PROFESSIONAL ISSUES 27. Ethical Issues in Geriatric Neuropsychology 28. Billing and Financial Arrangements for Neuropsychological and Psychological Services for Older Adults