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Some problematic behaviors in Alzheimer's dementia
1Department of Medicine, Aged Care and Rehabilitation Services, Blacktown-Mount Druitt Health, NSW 2148, Blacktown, Australia
Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics
|March 17, 2001
Summary
This study investigated problematic behaviors in dementia patients, linking them to cognitive impairment and illness stage. Severe dementia may reduce behavioral issues for caregivers, but these behaviors significantly impact social relationships and increase burden.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Problematic behaviors are common in dementia.
- Understanding these behaviors is crucial for patient care and caregiver support.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine problematic behaviors in dementia patients.
- To explore relationships between behaviors and dementia characteristics (cognitive impairment, illness stage, language, functional disability).
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 18 dementia patients with problematic behaviors.
- Assessment of cognitive impairment, illness stage, language, and functional disability.
- Categorization of behaviors including altered eating, hyperphagia, Kluver-Bucy Syndrome, pathological stealing, scatolia, screaming, and head banging.
Main Results:
- Most patients were in the moderate stage across tested domains.
- Specific behaviors observed: altered eating (10), hyperphagia (8), Kluver-Bucy Syndrome (1), pathological stealing (2), scatolia (1), screaming, and head banging.
- Behavioral problems may decrease in severity with advanced dementia.
Conclusions:
- Problematic behaviors in dementia are multifaceted and linked to disease progression.
- While severity may lessen in advanced stages, these behaviors cause significant social, interpersonal, and caregiver burden.
- Further research is needed to manage these challenging behaviors effectively.