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Dementia.
1Professor of Pharmacology and Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA. lvolicer@bu.edu
Neurologic Clinics
|February 21, 2002
Summary
Palliative care addresses common medical and behavioral issues in late-stage dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. Enhancing quality of life involves meaningful activities, avoiding restraints, and crucial family support for informed care decisions.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Geriatrics
- Palliative Care
Background:
- Alzheimer's disease is the most prevalent cause of dementia, but other conditions often coexist.
- Late-stage progressive degenerative dementias share similar palliative care medical issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline key medical and behavioral issues in late-stage dementia.
- To emphasize strategies for improving quality of life and ensuring patient-centered care.
Main Methods:
- Review of common palliative care issues in progressive degenerative dementias.
- Identification of factors influencing quality of life in dementia patients.
- Importance of advanced care planning.
Main Results:
- Common medical issues include resuscitation, acute care transfer, antibiotics, and tube feeding.
- Behavioral symptoms encompass agitation and resistiveness to care.
- Quality of life is improved by meaningful activities and absence of restraints.
Conclusions:
- Palliative care for late-stage dementia requires addressing medical and behavioral symptoms.
- Family support and advanced directives are vital for optimal patient care and respecting wishes.