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[Dementia in the elderly. A 3-year project].
1Gerontopsykiatrisk utredningsavdeling, Granli senter, Sem.
Summary
A specialized psychogeriatric unit improved memory problem care for 146 elderly patients, with medication management yielding positive outcomes. This pilot project became a valuable resource for local health services.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Psychiatry
Context:
- Memory problems in the elderly require specialized care.
- A pilot psychogeriatric unit was established to address this need.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a specialized psychogeriatric unit for examining and treating elderly patients with memory problems.
- To assess patient outcomes and the unit's role as a community health resource.
Summary:
- 146 elderly patients (average age 75.3) were examined between Sept 1986-Apr 1988.
- Diagnoses included dementia senilis (54%), other dementias (16%), psychiatric illness (14%), organic brain issues (8%), and confusion (7%).
- Medication management, particularly psychopharmacological drugs, was a key focus, with adjustments leading to significant improvements.
Impact:
- The unit demonstrated positive patient outcomes and served as a professional resource for local health services.
- The hospital secured government funding to establish a competence center for psychogeriatrics in Eastern Norway.