African-American caregivers' expectations of physicians: gaining insights into the key issues of caregivers' concerns.

This qualitative study was done to determine what expectations, if any, African-American caregivers' have of physicians; what were the various causes of caregivers' distress, and what were the participants' perceived level of satisfaction or lack of satisfaction with the physician-patient-caregiver relationship The participants in this current study were either providing or had provided assistance in the activities of daily living of elders diagnosed with Alzheimer's or dementia. Focus group methodology was used and participants were recruited from Oklahoma County, Oklahoma. A total of 13 participants, whose mean age was 53.

Behavioral complications of dementia.

This article reviews the behavioral symptoms commonly associated with dementia. The epidemiology, general characteristics and instruments used to evaluate these symptoms are briefly discussed. Details on a variety of behavioral and psychological symptoms are presented.

Perceived needs of African-American caregivers of elders with dementia.

To assess the perceived needs of African-American caregivers and their expectations of the health care system, perceived level of success and satisfaction in meeting their needs, and their level of distress, we convened two focus groups at a local church in Oklahoma City, OK to discuss three questions. Responses were qualitatively analyzed for common themes. The groups comprised 13 African-American caregivers of demented elders.

Research issues for minority dementia patients and their caregivers: what are the gaps in our knowledge base?

This article highlights the current state of dementia research in ethnic minority populations. Studies are sparse, and an increased effort to recruit and retain minorities for dementia studies is required to properly treat and serve these families. An examination of research in the areas of minority caregiver issues (service needs, service use, affiliation with a support group) and patient evaluation is provided.

Anticipating and preventing delirium.

Delirium is one of the most common complications in elderly hospitalized patients. It is a predictor of poor prognosis. Despite its high incidence, studies have shown that physicians fail to detect at least half of all cases of delirium.