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Updated: Feb 24, 2026
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Assessment of Dependence in Activities of Daily Living Among Older Patients in an Acute Care Unit
Published on: September 30, 2020
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Complex Clinical Intersection: Palliative Care in Patients with Dementia.
Ellen E Lee1, Beverly Chang2, Steven Huege2
1Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA; Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA.
Summary
Dementia care is improving with palliative approaches that address pain and quality of life for older adults. Adapting traditional palliative care can enhance outcomes for all dementia patients.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology and Neurology
- Palliative Care Research
Background:
- Rising dementia rates due to aging populations and increased longevity present significant clinical challenges.
- Limited resources and absence of curative treatments necessitate innovative care strategies for dementia patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review literature on pain assessment and management in dementia.
- To explore advanced care planning tools and clinical concerns for dementia patients.
- To evaluate the potential of modified palliative care models for improving dementia patient outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of published literature.
- Analysis of studies on pain and behavioral interventions.
- Examination of advanced care planning resources.
Main Results:
- Palliative care enhances quality of life and reduces suffering for end-stage dementia.
- Societal acceptance and feasibility can limit palliative care implementation.
- Literature covers pain, behavior, advanced care planning, and clinical issues.
Conclusions:
- Modifying traditional palliative care models can benefit dementia patients across all illness stages.
- Addressing pain and improving quality of life are key components of advanced dementia care.
- Further research and implementation strategies are needed to optimize palliative care for dementia.
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