Strategies for managing behavioural symptomatology associated with dementia of the Alzheimer type: a systematic overview

Can J Nurs Res. 1998 Summer;30(2):67-86.

Abstract

The purpose of this systematic overview was to summarize research findings on strategies for managing the behavioural symptomatology associated with dementia of the Alzheimer type. A search of the published and unpublished literature resulted in 265 articles, 45 of which were judged to be relevant. Using validity criteria, 1 article was judged to be strong, 6 moderate, 20 weak, and 18 poor. Strategies such as planned walking, pet therapy, an attention-focusing program, functional skills training, music, and visual barriers demonstrated promising results in improving: (a) aggressive, agitated, and disruptive behaviours, (b) social interaction, (c) self-care ability, (d) day-night disturbances, or (e) wandering. The findings indicate that there is existing research, although in its infancy, to support the use of strategies for managing the behavioural symptomatology associated with dementia of the Alzheimer type.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Activities of Daily Living
  • Aged
  • Alzheimer Disease / complications*
  • Humans
  • Mental Disorders / etiology*
  • Mental Disorders / nursing*
  • Mental Disorders / psychology
  • Nursing Research
  • Research Design
  • Self Care