Elevated CSF somatostatin concentrations in demented patients parallel improved psychomotor functions induced by...

Elderly demented patients from 2 nursing homes participated in this study. An experimental group (n = 17) was subjected to a 3-month program with integrity-promoting care resulting in emotional, intellectual and physical activation, whereas a control group (n = 18) had no change from the regular ward care. Dementia rating scales and psychological tests were administered before the start of the study and at the end of the 3-month study period. Lumbar punctures were performed at the same time for assessment of neuropeptide concentrations (somatostatin (SRIF), arginine vasopressin (AVP) and corticotropin-releasing factor) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). In the control group no significant changes were found in the ratings before and after the study. In contrast, improvements in intellectual and motor functioning were observed in the experimental group. Concomitantly, the SRIF concentrations in CSF were significantly elevated in the experimental group and not affected in the control group. The CSF AVP concentrations were reduced in both groups at the end of the study, but considerably more in the control group. It is concluded that environmental factors can improve intellectual and motor functioning in demented patients and also alter CSF biochemical measures of dementia.