Helping Family Caregivers Manage Dementia-Related Behavioral Symptoms

Helping Family Caregivers Manage Dementia-Related Behavioral Symptoms

　One of the most challenging aspects of family caregiving for older adults with dementia involves the management of dementia-related behavioral symptoms (e.g., asking repeated questions, resisting care or hiding personal belongings). This paper presents a conceptual model that can be used by nurses to assist family caregivers to better manage these symptoms.

　It is well known that we are projected to see an unprecedented increase in the number and relative proportion of older adults over the next 30-40 years. One of the reasons these projections are so important is because the prevalence of functional impairment rises dramatically with age. According to the National Academy on an Aging Society (2000) 40% of people over age 70 need help with one or more activity of daily living. Most of that assistance is provided by family caregivers.

　One of the most challenging aspects of family caregiving for older adults with dementia involves the management of dementia-related behavioral symptoms (e.g., asking repeated questions, resisting care or hiding personal belongings). This paper presents a conceptual model that can be used by nurses to assist family caregivers to better manage these symptoms.

　It is well known that we are projected to see an unprecedented increase in the number and relative proportion of older adults over the next 30-40 years. One of the reasons these projections are so important is because the prevalence of functional impairment rises dramatically with age. According to the National Academy on an Aging Society (2000) 40% of people over age 70 need help with one or more activity of daily living. Most of that assistance is provided by family caregivers.