Grant: Knowledge Synthesis Grant

Over half of all older adults living in long-term care (LTC) suffer from dementia such as Alzheimer's disease and the majority of individuals with dementia will develop behavioral and emotional problems as a result of the illness. These symptoms, referred to as neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) or behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, include agitation, hallucinations and other distressing symptoms. These symptoms are a frequent reason for LTC admission, decrease quality of life for patients and families, and present a challenging problem for healthcare staff providing care in LTC. Many treatments have been investigated for these symptoms including medications and non-pharmacological interventions. Medications such as antipsychotics are frequently used for these symptoms although many medications have modest effects and are often associated with serious side-effects. Non-pharmacological approaches are often recommended for these symptoms to encourage patient-centred care and reduce complications associated with medications. Clinicians require knowledge of practical non-pharmacological interventions to use in conjunction with or as alternatives to medications. Currently, little is known about the relative safety and effectiveness of medication and non-pharmacological treatments for neuropsychiatric symptoms of dementia in long-term care residents. Our research project will review and summarize studies of both medication and non-pharmacological approaches to the treatment of NPS of dementia and provide practical guides for nursing staff, family physicians, and mental health professionals to improve the care of individuals with dementia in LTC.