Psychogeriatric inpatient unit design: a literature review.

Background: In many parts of the world the provision of psychogeriatric inpatient units (PGUs) remains limited. More units will be required over coming decades given rapid population aging.

Methods: Medline (1950-2010), psycINFO (1806-2009), EMBASE (1980-2009) and CINAHL (1982-2009) were searched for papers about PGU design.

An evaluation of the effectiveness of a case-specific approach to challenging behaviour associated with dementia.

Objectives: Treatment of challenging behaviour in dementia using standardized psychopharmacological or psychosocial approaches remains problematical. A case-specific approach was trialled in this study, based on extensive evidence that each case is different in aetiology, the effects of the behaviour on others and what interventions are possible given the available resources.

Method: Forty-four consecutive referrals for challenging behaviour (two-thirds in residential care) were assessed across multiple causal domains.

Depression in nursing homes: ensuring adequate treatment.

Studies have shown a high prevalence of depressive disorders among nursing home residents around the world. Various losses in old age may precipitate depression, and physical illness and disability are major factors that contribute to the development and persistence of depressive disorders. Demoralization (existential distress) is common.

A controlled trial of a predominantly psychosocial approach to BPSD: treating causality.

Background: The adverse effects of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) are well described but treatment remains problematical, including overuse of psychotropic medication. This study aims to compare the outcome of two approaches to BPSD, one focusing on causality and using predominantly psychosocial interventions, the other relying predominantly on psychotropic medication.

Methods: Thirty-three residential care clients manifesting BPSD who had been referred to a community psychogeriatric service (intervention group) were assessed and treated, with the focus placed on the causes of the behavior and why it was perceived as a problem by nursing staff.

Animal-assisted therapy for dementia: a review of the literature.

Background: Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is gaining popularity as part of therapy programs in residential aged care facilities. Humans and pet dogs respond to quiet interaction with a lowering of blood pressure and an increase in neurochemicals associated with relaxation and bonding. These effects may be of benefit in ameliorating behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD).