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Quality of life and real life cognitive functioning
- Author:
- ESRC GROWING OLDER PROGRAMME
- Publisher:
- University of Sheffield. Department of Sociological Studies
- Publication year:
- 2003
- Pagination:
- 4p.
- Place of publication:
- Sheffield
This study examined the predictive value of mid-life risk factors for cognitive functioning in old age. Participants were drawn from a study of middle-aged people living in research conducted 30 years ago. Current cognitive functioning, both 'abstract' and 'real world', was assessed, along with attitudes and beliefs regarding how to maintain cognitive functioning in old age. Cognitive functioning was then examined in relation to perceived quality of life.
Psychiatry of elderly compared to younger adults with intellectual disabilities
- Author:
- COOPER Sally-Ann
- Journal article citation:
- Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities, 10(4), 1997, pp.303-311.
- Publisher:
- Wiley
Investigates the prevalence of psychiatric disorders amongst adults with intellectual disabilities aged 65 years and over, living in Leicestershire, UK, compared to a random sample of adults with intellectual disabilities aged 20-64 years, living in the same area. Both groups had high rates of current psychiatric morbidity, but rates were significantly higher in the elderly group. Also found dementia occurs at a much higher rate amongst people with intellectual disabilities than it does amongst the general population.
Language impairment in dementia: impact on symptoms and care needs in residential homes
- Authors:
- POTKINS Dawn, et al
- Journal article citation:
- International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 18(11), November 2003, pp.1002-1006.
- Publisher:
- Wiley
Impairment of language skills affects the level of functioning of an individual, interferes with effective communication and can result in development of disruptive behaviour. Social skills and capacity for self care may be compromised. Few studies have evaluated the impact of language problems on symptoms and socialization in people with dementia in care environments. 315 elderly residents with dementia (29% living in nursing homes, 71% in social care facilities) were assessed using standardized psychiatric schedules including the Sheffield Screening Test for Acquired Language Disorders and Neuropsychiatric Inventory. Dementia Care Mapping was undertaken at random in at least 50% of residents in each facility. Expressive language impairment was associated with the presence of delusions even when severity of dementia was controlled for (p=0.02) and showed a tendency of association with depression (p=0.06). Receptive language difficulties were strongly associated with presence of Aberrant Motor Behaviour, even controlling for severity of dementia (p=0.04). Decreased participation in social activities was correlated with both expressive (p=0.048) and receptive aspects of language (p<0.01) but social withdrawal was only correlated with receptive language difficulties (p=0.01). Language disorders are associated with both behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia even when severity of dementia is controlled for. Patients' needs in communication skills should be addressed earlier to help them maintain social interactions and reduce the impact on behavioural problems and patients' quality of life.
Different attitudes when handling aggressive behaviour in dementia: narratives from two caregiver groups
- Authors:
- SKOVDAHL K., KIHLGREN A. I., KIHLGREN M.
- Journal article citation:
- Aging and Mental Health, 7(4), July 2003, pp.277-286.
- Publisher:
- Taylor and Francis
This study highlights the experiences of 15 formal caregivers, during interactions with elderly residents suffering from dementia disease and showing aggressive behaviour. The purpose was to study caregivers’ reflections about and attitudes to behavioural and psychiatric symptoms of dementia (BPSD) and how they dealt with the symptoms. This was done by comparing care units with high or low levels of aggressive behaviour in residents. A phenomenological-hermeneutic approach was used for the analysis of the interviews. The main themes that emerged were: a need for balance between demands and competence; and a need for support. The findings indicated the importance of a balance for the residents as well as for the caregivers, if a positive relationship was to develop. Furthermore, caregivers stated that support was crucial, not only for the residents but also for themselves, if they were expected to cope with demanding situations. Different types of support were necessary and included: confirmation, feedback, and supervision. Residents who feel appreciated and respected may be less likely to act out their frustrations in an inappropriate manner. Caregivers who strive to understand the meaning behind a resident’s behaviour and who master the necessary care-giving skills, and their implementation, could be more successful at curbing distressing behaviour, than caregivers who act merely in a custodial role.