Ánoies kai Gnōstikī Ékptōsī

Specialization / Direction

By the end of the course, students will be able to: 1. Critically differentiate between typical, atypical, and mixed forms of dementia, as well as early cognitive decline syndromes, using internationally recognised diagnostic criteria. (Lectures on internationally recognised diagnostic criteria (e.g., DSM-5, NIA-AA, ICD-11) will outline the differences among typical, atypical, and mixed dementia, as well as early cognitive decline syndromes). 2. Interpret and integrate neuropsychological, biochemical, and neurophysiological data to support the accurate diagnosis and staging of cognitive disorders in older adults. (In small groups, students will integrate data from different sources (e.g., neuropsychological tests, blood tests, and EEG/fMRI reports) to form comprehensive diagnostic conclusions). 3. Evaluate and design evidence-based, non-pharmacological interventions tailored to individuals at various stages of cognitive decline, including affect-focused strategies for advanced dementia. (Students will examine case studies or published research to evaluate the effectiveness of different interventions, developing critical appraisal skills). 4. Assess the effectiveness and ethical implications of innovative technologies (e.g., social robots, sensor systems) used in the care and support of older adults with cognitive impairments. (An essay or policy brief analyzing a specific technology’s clinical effectiveness and ethical implications, ensuring a balanced and informed perspective). 5. Communicate clinical and intervention-related information effectively, demonstrating sensitivity to the needs of interdisciplinary teams, caregivers, and individuals with dementia. (Students will be evaluated through oral case presentations and written clinical summaries, emphasizing clarity, conciseness, and the accurate translation of clinical data into understandable language).

In this course students can deepen their knowledge of the basic types of dementia, of atypical as well as mixed dementia, but also of the types of cognitive decline that older adults can have before the onset of dementia. In particular, the internationally accepted criteria for the diagnosis of different types of dementia and cognitive decline, and their subtypes, are presented. Students will learn to interpret not only the neuropsychological criteria aimed at diagnosing distinct types of dementia, but also the biochemical and neurophysiological diagnostic markers. In addition to diagnosis, a range of non-pharmacological interventions are presented and discussed so that students will learn to design and evaluate such interventions. Specifically, regarding the advanced stages of dementia, interventions on affect are developed and discussed, with the aim of enhancing the wellbeing of severely demented individuals. For the earliest states of cognitive decline, a wide range of interventions to enhance cognitive function, social cognition and daily functioning are presented. The utility of innovative technological modalities and tools (e.g., social robots, cameras for measuring and assessing pathological symptoms) to support healthy and demented older people is also discussed.

types of dementia, diagnosis, cognition, cognitive control, affect, interventions, computerized tests

18-09-2025