Systematic reviews on behavioural and psychological symptoms in the older or demented population.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPS) include depressive symptoms, anxiety, apathy, sleep problems, irritability, psychosis, wandering, elation and agitation, and are common in the non-demented and demented population.

Methods

We have undertaken a systematic review of reviews to give a broad overview of the prevalence, course, biological and psychosocial associations, care and outcomes of BPS in the older or demented population, and highlight limitations and gaps in existing research. Embase and Medline were searched for systematic reviews using search terms for BPS, dementia and ageing.

Results

Thirty-six reviews were identified. Most investigated the prevalence or course of symptoms, while few reviewed the effects of BPS on outcomes a

SUBMITTER: van der Linde RM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3506942 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature