TREATING BEHAVIORAL SYMPTOMS OF DEMENTIA IN ASSISTED LIVING

Abstract

Assisted living residences (ALRs) have become a notable site of care for persons with dementia in the U.S., as have similar settings across the globe. Concern has been raised, however, that ALR staff are not trained to address behavioral symptoms of dementia, and that antipsychotic medications are being used inappropriately to manage symptoms. This session will present data on non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic practices in the U.S., drawing on national estimates, data from 280 ALRs across seven states, and from 90 ALRs in one state. Illustrative statistics are that nationally, more than one-third of residents display behavioral symptoms, almost 60% of who are treated with a medication; that antipsychotic medications are more often prescribed in ALRs that have memory care units (p<.05); and that staff largely have the capacity to implement practices such as therapeutic touch or environmental modification, but rarely do so. Implications of findings across countries will be discussed.