International psychogeriatrics
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The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature regarding the incidence of delirium following orthopedic surgery. ⋯ Delirium occurs more commonly with hip fracture than elective surgery, and frequently has a preoperative onset when associated with trauma. Recommendations are made with the aim of standardizing future research in order to further explore and reduce the heterogeneity and possible publication bias observed.
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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). ⋯ Current literature suggests that AAT may ameliorate BPSD, but the duration of the beneficial effect has not been explored. The relative benefits of "resident" versus "visiting" pet dogs are unclear and are confounded by the positive effect of pet interaction on staff or caregivers. Further research on the potential benefits of AAT is recommended.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Classification of patterns of delirium severity scores over time in an elderly population.
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To examine delirium, chronic medical problems and sociodemographic factors as predictors of activities of daily living (ADL), basic ADL (BADL) and instrumental ADL (IADL). ⋯ Rather than finding delirium to be a predictor of poorer functional outcome among survivors, we found an interaction between delirium and dementia and several plausible confounders, primarily chronic medical problems, although we cannot rule out the effect of misclassification or survivor bias.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study
Donepezil for negative signs in elderly patients with schizophrenia: an add-on, double-blind, crossover, placebo-controlled study.
Cognitive impairment and negative signs are common in patients with schizophrenia. Up to 35% of elderly patients with schizophrenia fulfill the diagnostic criteria of dementia. Donepezil inhibits cholinesterase, thus enhancing cholinergic neurotransmission. We tested the efficacy of donepezil in elderly patients with chronic schizophrenia and severe cognitive impairment. ⋯ Donepezil does not seem to improve negative signs and cognitive impairment in elderly patients with chronic schizophrenia.