Reducing neuropsychiatric symptoms in persons with dementia and associated burden in family caregivers using tailored activities: Design and methods of a randomized clinical trial.

ABSTRACT: Among over 5million people in the USA with dementia, neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) are almost universal, occurring across disease etiology and stage. If untreated, NPS can lead to significant morbidity and mortality including increased cost, distress, depression, and faster disease progression, as well as heightened burden on families. With few pharmacological solutions, identifying nonpharmacologic strategies is critical. We describe a randomized clinical trial, the Dementia Behavior Study, to test the efficacy of an activity program to reduce significant existing NPS and associated caregiver burden at 3 and 6months compared to a control group intervention. Occupational therapists deliver 8 in-home sessions over 3months to assess capabilities and interests of persons with dementia, home

SUBMITTER: Gitlin LN 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4969112 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature