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Predictors and consequences of aggressive behavior by community-based dementia patients
The Gerontologist
|April 1, 1990
Summary
Aggressive behavior is common in dementia patients living at home, affecting over half of them. Factors like memory issues and prior aggression predict this behavior, often leading to the end of home care services.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Dementia poses significant challenges for patients and caregivers.
- Aggressive behavior is a prevalent and distressing symptom in dementia.
- Understanding aggression is crucial for maintaining home care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the frequency, nature, and context of aggressive behavior in community-dwelling dementia patients.
- To identify predictors of patient aggression.
- To examine the impact of patient aggression on home care continuation.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study involving 213 dementia patients in the community.
- Data collected on patient aggression, caregiver reactions, and relevant patient characteristics.
- Statistical analysis to identify predictors of aggression and its consequences.
Main Results:
- Aggression was reported in 57.2% of dementia patients and 10.6% of caregivers.
- Predictors included frequent behaviors, memory problems, premorbid aggression, and troubled patient-caregiver relationships.
- Patient aggression was a significant predictor for discontinuing home care.
Conclusions:
- Aggressive behavior is a frequent issue in community-based dementia care.
- Specific patient and relational factors predict aggression.
- Aggression significantly impacts the sustainability of home care for dementia patients.