The outcomes of an inpatient treatment program for geriatric patients with dementia and dysfunctional behaviors.
This study evaluated outcomes of an inpatient program designed to reduce severe agitated behavior in geriatric patients with dementia who could not be successfully treated on an outpatient basis. An individualized treatment plan was created for each patient (N = 250) that involved pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions with behavioral, environmental, and psychological components. Assessment of behavioral, cognitive, and functional status was conducted for each patient on admission to the program and at discharge. Significant improvements on these assessments were observed. We conclude that the longitudinal, multidisciplinary approach used in this study was effective in significantly reducing intrusive and dangerous behaviors while preserving or enhancing patients' cognitive and functional abilities.
Holm
A
A
HealthEast Bethesda Rehabilitation Hospital Geriatric Behavioral Program, St. Paul, MN, USA.
Michel
M
M
Stern
G A
GA
Hung
T M
TM
Klein
T
T
Flaherty
L
L
Michel
S
S
Maletta
G
G
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003704:Dementia / Q000150:complications*; D005260:Female; D006299:Health Services for the Aged / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006801:Humans; D007902:Length of Stay; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology; D008875:Middle Aged; D008910:Minnesota; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care; D015397:Program Evaluation; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011595:Psychomotor Agitation / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology; D018434:Sickness Impact Profile; D012866:Skilled Nursing Facilities / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*