[Non-cognitive symptoms of dementia -- prevalence and consequences].

OBJECTIVE

While the importance of non-cognitive symptoms of dementia is increasingly recognized there exist nearly no studies investigating the frequency of these symptoms among general hospital inpatients and nursing home residents.

METHOD

The sample consisted of elderly persons admitted to medical hospital departments (N = 372) and nursing homes (N = 249) in Austria. Study participants were investigated by research psychiatrists using the Clinical Interview Schedule.

RESULTS

Of all patients with dementia, in medical departments 28 % and in nursing homes 38 % had marked or severe non-cognitive symptoms. Using multivariate regression procedures non-cognitive symptoms turned out to be significant predictors for nursing home referral, for a prolonged duration of hospital stay, and for impaired self-care.

CONCLUSIONS

Non-cognitive symptoms of dementia occur frequently and have several negative consequences. Since such non-cognitive symptoms might be treatable, they should receive sufficient attention from the staff.