Advances in surgical techniques and anesthetic care have resulted in a substantial reduction in peri-operative morbidity and mortality in the elderly. However, post-operative cognitive dysfunction (POCD), as well as episodic post-operative delirium, are still recognized as significant complications following surgery in the elderly. Post-operative cognitive dysfunction is characterized by impairment of memory, concentration, language, comprehension, and social integration. Conversely, post-operative delirium is characterized by intermittent, short-term impaired cognition, disorientation, and abnormalities in memory and perception, which has been shown to lead to increased morbidity and mortality, delayed functional recovery, and prolonged hospital stays. Elderly patients are particularly sensitive to the central nervous system effects of many peri-anesthetic drugs, including benzodiazepines, barbiturates, opioids, and volatile anesthetics, which may play a role in POCD and consequent patient outcomes. Randomized clinical trials have demonstrated no difference in the recovery of cognitive function between commonly used volatile anesthetic agents.