[Causes and consequences of elderly's agitated and aggressive behavior].

Area of Science:

• Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine
• Behavioral Science in Aging
• Primary Care Research

Context:

• The aging global population presents a growing public health challenge due to increased prevalence of agitation and aggressiveness in the elderly.
• Limited epidemiological data exists in French literature regarding the symptoms, comorbidities, and consequences of disruptive behaviors in older adults within primary care settings.
• This study addresses the need for comprehensive data on elderly disruptive behaviors by surveying general practitioners (GPs).

Purpose:

• To describe the characteristics, underlying causes, and consequences of agitation and aggressiveness in elderly patients presenting in primary care.
• To gather epidemiological data on disruptive behaviors in individuals over 65 years old within the French healthcare system.

Summary:

• A cross-sectional study surveyed 410 patients (mean age 81) from 212 French GPs, identifying common symptoms like verbal and physical aggression, agitation, and wandering.
• Disruptive behaviors were frequently associated with organic illnesses (62%), dementia (Alzheimer's, vascular, mixed), and mental health conditions (54% depression/anxiety).
• The study documented significant somatic consequences (falls, weight loss, dehydration) and profound impacts on daily activities and family life.

Impact:

• Findings underscore the severe medical and psychosocial burden of elderly disruptive behaviors, necessitating improved primary care management strategies.
• The research highlights the critical need for better support systems for families coping with the distress caused by these behaviors.
• This study provides essential epidemiological insights for public health policy and clinical practice concerning geriatric behavioral disturbances.