Characteristics of the demented living in different settings in Sweden.

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this paper is to describe elderly people living in different care settings in Sweden according to prevalence of dementia, ADL functions, psychiatric symptoms, behavioural symptoms and workload imposed on the staff.

MATERIAL & METHODS: In total 842 persons living in different settings (nursing homes, homes for the aged, service houses and group-livings) has been investigated. The MDDAS scale has been used to measure motor functions, vision, hearing, speech, ADL functions, behavioural disturbances, psychiatric symptoms and workload imposed on the staff.

RESULTS

Probands cared for in different settings differ considerably as to prevalence of dementia, ADL functions, behaviour and psychiatric symptoms. Those living in nursing homes were most impaired and imposed the heaviest workload on the staff. The study has also shown that the nursing load is increasing rapidly in the homes for the aged.