International journal of geriatric psychiatry
-
Int J Geriatr Psychiatry · Sep 2008
Assessment of the severity of dementia: validity and reliability of the Chinese (Cantonese) version of the Hierarchic Dementia Scale (CV-HDS).
With the rapid growth of the older population, early detection of cognitive deficits is crucial in slowing down functional deterioration of the elderly persons. ⋯ The CV-HDS is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing severity of cognitive impairment in Cantonese speaking Chinese people with dementia. It facilitates treatment planning to optimize the effects of functional training and rehabilitation.
-
Int J Geriatr Psychiatry · Aug 2008
ReviewNaturalistic outcomes of minor and subsyndromal depression in older primary care patients.
To review the literature regarding the naturalistic outcomes of minor and subsyndromal depression ('Min/SSD') in older primary care patients, synthesizing and critiquing findings and discussing avenues for future research. ⋯ Min/SSD is common and of real clinical importance in primary care seniors. Several definitions of SSD may be used, each with overlapping but distinguishable utility in identifying patients. While the evidence base has expanded greatly in the past decade, considerable work remains to be done. Naturalistic studies of several outcome domains are needed, focusing on the predictive, moderating, and mediating roles of a wide range of psychopathological, medical, functional, and psychosocial factors. Such work will complement interventions and biomarker research approaches.
-
Int J Geriatr Psychiatry · Jul 2008
The attitudes and practices of general practitioners regarding dementia diagnosis in Ireland.
The diagnosis of dementia poses difficulties for general practitioners (GPs) particularly when access to specialist diagnostic services is delayed. Ireland is soon to witness an increase in numbers of people presenting with dementia, yet little is known about the service needs of GPs when attempting to diagnose dementia. ⋯ Findings provide compelling evidence that training and access to diagnostic services are only two of several different structural and ideological obstacles that GPs encounter when attempting to diagnose dementia. Future educational supports for GPs need to be developed which concentrate on these areas.
-
Int J Geriatr Psychiatry · Jun 2008
Effect of an interdisciplinary educational program on antipsychotic prescribing among nursing home residents with dementia.
To assess the effect of an interdisciplinary educational program in reducing the use of antipsychotics in nursing home residents with dementia. ⋯ Our interdisciplinary educational program led to a substantial reduction in the number of residents receiving antipsychotics and to a decrease in the frequency of disruptive behaviors. Our findings suggest that implementation of recognized practice guidelines could be an effective way to target residents who might not benefit from antipsychotics or who may tolerate a dose reduction.