Related Experiment Videos
Incontinence and troublesome behaviors predict institutionalization in dementia
B F O'Donnell1, D A Drachman, H J Barnes
1Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Medical Center, Worcester.
Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry and Neurology
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Behavioral disorders like paranoia and aggression, along with incontinence, significantly predict early institutionalization in dementia patients. Managing these symptoms is key to delaying long-term care placement.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Dementia poses significant challenges for patients and caregivers.
- Early institutionalization is a critical outcome impacting patient care and healthcare systems.
- Identifying predictors of institutionalization is essential for timely intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate factors influencing the early institutionalization of dementia outpatients.
- To evaluate the prognostic value of functional impairment, behavioral disorders, patient characteristics, and caregiver type.
Main Methods:
- Univariate and multivariate life-table analyses were employed.
- 143 dementia outpatients were followed for an average of 19 months.
- Predictors assessed included global severity, behavioral disturbances, patient demographics, and caregiver relationships.
Main Results:
- Institutionalization occurred in 51 patients.
- Increased dementia severity, disruptive behaviors (paranoia, aggression), and incontinence were significant predictors.
- Patient age, education, gender, and caregiver relationship did not influence institutionalization.
Conclusions:
- Behavioral disturbances and incontinence are key predictors of early institutionalization in dementia.
- Targeted management of behavioral symptoms may help delay or prevent institutionalization.
- Focusing on treatable behavioral aspects is crucial in dementia care strategies.