Physical activity attenuates neuropsychiatric disturbances and caregiver burden in patients with dementia.

Introduction: A significant benefit from physical activity has recently been described in some patients who suffer from neurodegenerative diseases.

Objective: To assess the effects of physical activity on neuropsychiatric disturbances in demented patients and on the mental burden of their caregivers.

Methods: Assisted by a public geriatric psychiatry clinical unit, we studied 59 patients with dementia.

A controlled clinical trial on the effects of motor intervention on balance and cognition in institutionalized elderly patients with dementia.

Purpose: To analyse the effects of two interventions on the cognition and balance of institutionalized elderly people with mixed dementia.

Methods: Fifty-four participants were allocated into three groups. Group 1 was assisted by an interdisciplinary programme comprising physiotherapy, occupational therapy and physical education.

The influence of schooling on cognitive screening test in the elderly.

Introduction: Tests for screening cognitive functions are gaining importance with the increasing incidence and prevalence of demential syndromes. For our elderly population, the challenge is to develop neuropsychological tests independent from the influence of educational level.

Objective: To compare the influence of education on the elderly with or without cognitive decline, on the Brief Cognitive Screening Battery (BCSB).