Factors associated with behavioral symptoms in persons with dementia residing in assisted living

Abstract

<p>Factors associated with behavioral symptoms among persons with dementia residing in assisted living were investigated in this study using a descriptive, correlational design with a cross-sectional methodology. The purposes of the research were to (a) describe the extent of pain, depression, co-morbid conditions, function and behavioral symptoms in a sample of residents with dementia in assisted living and (b) identify the relationship between the of factors pain, depression, co-morbid conditions, and function to the extent of behavioral symptoms in the sample. Using a convenience sampling method, 64 residents' age 73-98 residing in assisted living facilities were selected to participate in the study. Data were collected using a demographic data form, the Mini-Mental State Examination, Geriatric Depression Scale, Numerical Rating Scale, Coloured Analogue Scale, Checklist of Nonverbal Pain Indicators, Cumulative Illness Rating Scale - Geriatrics, Functional Behavior Profile, Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory and a facility profile. Relatively high levels of depression, pain, co-morbidity and behavioral symptoms were found in the study. Significant positive correlations were found between behavioral symptoms and depression and behavioral symptoms and co-morbid conditions and a negative correlation was found between functional level and behavioral symptoms. No significant correlations were found between mild--moderate versus moderate--severe cognitive impairment and behavioral symptoms. Overall, the best predictors of the level of behavioral symptoms in persons with dementia residing in assisted living were depression, co-morbid conditions and functional status. Pain was not found to be a predictor of behavioral symptoms in this sample.</p>