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Chenoweth L. Supporting shared decision-making in medicines use with people living with dementia and their carers. Nurs Older People 2024:e1458. [PMID: 38263893 DOI: 10.7748/nop.2024.e1458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Polypharmacy and inappropriate prescribing of psychotropic medicines are common among people living with dementia and pose considerable health risks. One way of addressing these issues is by involving the person and their carer in shared decision-making. This article discusses some of the issues related to polypharmacy and inappropriate prescribing in people living with dementia and examines the concept of shared decision-making in this context. The author details some practical aids that nurses and other healthcare professionals can use to engage people living with dementia and their carers in shared decision-making about medicines use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynn Chenoweth
- School of Clinical Medicine, Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing, University of New South Wales, Kennington, NSW, Australia
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2
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Latgé-Tovar S, Bertrand E, Cosentino S, Dourado MC, Laks J, Landeira-Fernandez J, Morris RG, Mograbi DC. Self- and Other-Evaluation in Alzheimer’s Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2022; 90:283-294. [DOI: 10.3233/jad-220453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background: Impaired awareness of ability is common in dementia and has important clinical implications. Evidence from different clinical groups has shown that awareness can vary according to whether evaluation refers to self or other performance. Objective: The present study aimed to investigate awareness for self- and other-performance in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients, exploring if results vary according to cognitive domain of the tasks. It was hypothesized that, particularly for memory tasks, AD patients would be inaccurate in relation to self-but not other-performance. Methods: Twenty-two mild to moderate AD patients and twenty-two healthy older adults participated. Two tasks, with reaction time (RT) and working memory tasks, were carried out, and each had a success and a failure condition. Participants were asked to estimate their own performance, as well as the performance of another person they observed. Awareness of performance was measured comparing participant estimations of performance with actual performance. Results: For both the RT and working memory tasks, results indicate that participants from both groups overestimated the performance in the failure condition and underestimated the performance in the success condition. They tended to overestimate more the performance of the other person compared to themselves. Additionally, for the working memory task, AD patients tended to overestimate more performances compared to controls. Conclusion: Findings suggest that the AD and control groups present the same pattern, with attribution of better performance to another person. For the AD group, the pattern of response was different for memory tasks, which may suggest domain-specific limited awareness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Latgé-Tovar
- Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Institute of Psychiatry, Center for Alzheimer’s Disease, Rio deJaneiro, RJ, Brazil
- These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Elodie Bertrand
- Université Paris-Cité, Institut de Psychologie, Paris, France
- These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Stephanie Cosentino
- Cognitive Neuroscience Division of the Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- Cognitive Neuroscience Division of the Gertrude H.Sergievsky Center, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- Cognitive Neuroscience Division of the Department of Neurology, Columbia University Medical Center, NewYork, NY, USA
| | - Marcia C.N. Dourado
- Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Institute of Psychiatry, Center for Alzheimer’s Disease, Rio deJaneiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Jerson Laks
- Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Institute of Psychiatry, Center for Alzheimer’s Disease, Rio deJaneiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Jesus Landeira-Fernandez
- Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro(PUC-Rio), Department of Psychology, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Robin G. Morris
- King’s College London, Institute of Psychiatry - Psychology & Neuroscience, London, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel C. Mograbi
- Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Institute of Psychiatry, Center for Alzheimer’s Disease, Rio deJaneiro, RJ, Brazil
- Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro(PUC-Rio), Department of Psychology, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- King’s College London, Institute of Psychiatry - Psychology & Neuroscience, London, United Kingdom
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Santos RL, Simões Neto JP, Belfort T, Lacerda IB, Dourado MCN. Patterns of impairment in decision-making capacity in Alzheimer's disease and its relationship with cognitive and clinical variables. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY 2022; 44:271-278. [PMID: 35239836 PMCID: PMC9169465 DOI: 10.1590/1516-4446-2021-2180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the patterns of impairment in decision-making abilities and their relationship with cognitive and clinical symptoms in people with Alzheimer's disease. We hypothesized that decision-making abilities would not be impaired at the same level and would be related to impairment of global cognition and other clinical symptoms of the disease. METHODS Using a cross-sectional design, we included a consecutive sample of 102 people with Alzheimer's disease and their respective caregivers. We investigated the relationship between decision-making capacity and quality of life (QoL), disease awareness, mood, functionality, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and cognition. RESULTS Different levels of impairment were observed in the participants' decision-making abilities. Understanding, appreciation, and reasoning were correlated, but expressing a choice was only correlated with appreciation. Deficits in understanding were related to impaired disease awareness, lower self-reported QoL, and lower comprehension of spoken language. Better appreciation was related to better orientation and lower age. Better reasoning was related to better orientation and better self-reported QoL. Deficits in expressing a choice were related to lower self-reported QoL. CONCLUSION The pattern of impairment in decision-making abilities was not linear. Each decision-making ability was related to different cognitive and clinical deficits. Therefore, cognitive functioning is an insufficient criterion for judging an individual's decision-making ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Luiza Santos
- Centro para Doenças de Alzheimer e Outros Transtornos Mentais na Velhice, Instituto de Psiquiatria, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.,Departamento de Psicologia, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.,Departamento de Psicologia, Universidade do Grande Rio, Duque de Caxias, RJ, Brazil
| | - José Pedro Simões Neto
- Departamento de Sociologia e Ciência Política, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Tatiana Belfort
- Centro para Doenças de Alzheimer e Outros Transtornos Mentais na Velhice, Instituto de Psiquiatria, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Isabel Barbeito Lacerda
- Centro para Doenças de Alzheimer e Outros Transtornos Mentais na Velhice, Instituto de Psiquiatria, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Marcia Cristina Nascimento Dourado
- Centro para Doenças de Alzheimer e Outros Transtornos Mentais na Velhice, Instituto de Psiquiatria, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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4
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The Relationship Between Decision-making Capacity and the Domains of Awareness in Alzheimer Disease. Alzheimer Dis Assoc Disord 2022; 36:58-63. [PMID: 35090160 DOI: 10.1097/wad.0000000000000484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
People with Alzheimer dementia (PwAD) who are aware of their overall cognitive function and diagnosis are more likely to be judged competent in decision-making capacity. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the relationship between decision-making capacity and the different domains of awareness and the relationship between decision-making capacity and the cognitive and clinical impairment of the PwAD. Using a cross-sectional design, we included 121 PwAD and their caregivers. Awareness was assessed across domains, including cognitive functioning and health condition, functional activity impairments, emotional state, social functioning, and interpersonal relationships. The MacArthur Competence Assessment Tool for Treatment was adopted to gather information about decision-making abilities. We found that decision-making capacity is related to the cognitive and functional domains of awareness and relatively independent of the emotional functioning and the relationship domains. Our finding highlighted that PwAD who are unaware of the disease or the cognitive and functional impairments might be unlikely to appreciate the personal benefits of a proposed health treatment or to understand and judge the personal consequences of a decision accurately.
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Bolognini N, Gramegna C, Esposito A, Aiello EN, Difonzo T, Zago S. The Testamentary Capacity Assessment Tool (TCAT): validation and normative data. Neurol Sci 2021; 43:2831-2838. [PMID: 34787752 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05736-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is an increasing need for objective and standardized assessment of testamentary capacity (TC) in dementia. A new instrument, the Testamentary Capacity Assessment Tool (TCAT), has been recently developed; however, the lack of validation and normative data regarding this cognitive screening test has limited its adoption in forensic and clinical settings. The present study collects normative data for the TCAT and assesses its convergent validity with standardized cognitive tests and the capacity to define what a 'testament' is. METHODS The study involved 323 neurologically healthy adults (123 males, 200 females) of different ages (31-93 years) and different educational levels (4-25 years). The TCAT was administered along with the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), the Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB) and the Testament Definition Scale (TDS). RESULTS Multiple regression analyses revealed a significant effect for gender, age and education on TCAT scores. Correlation analyses showed significant associations between the TCAT and the MMSE, MoCA, FAB and BDI-II. A positive correlation between the TCAT and TDS was also found, proving good convergent validity of the TCAT with respect to TC. Finally, cut-off scores and Equivalent Scores (ES) were computed. DISCUSSION The present study provides normative data for using the TCAT as an adjuvant cognitive screening test in the neuropsychological evaluation of TC. Our findings shall be of interest for the adoption of the TCAT also in clinical practice, since it evaluates cognitive functions (e.g., autobiographic memory, Theory of Mind) not measured by traditional screening tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Bolognini
- Department of Psychology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy. .,Neuropsychological Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Chiara Gramegna
- Department of Psychology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy.,Ph.D. Program in Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | | | - Edoardo Nicolò Aiello
- Ph.D. Program in Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Teresa Difonzo
- U.O.C. Di Neurologia, IRCCS Fondazione Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Zago
- U.O.C. Di Neurologia, IRCCS Fondazione Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Frederiksen KS, Nielsen TR, Winblad B, Schmidt R, Kramberger MG, Jones RW, Hort J, Grimmer T, Georges J, Frölich L, Engelborghs S, Dubois B, Waldemar G. European Academy of Neurology/European Alzheimer's Disease Consortium position statement on diagnostic disclosure, biomarker counseling, and management of patients with mild cognitive impairment. Eur J Neurol 2021; 28:2147-2155. [PMID: 33368924 PMCID: PMC8246881 DOI: 10.1111/ene.14668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Careful counseling through the diagnostic process and adequate postdiagnostic support in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is important. Previous studies have indicated heterogeneity in practice and the need for guidance for clinicians. METHODS A joint European Academy of Neurology/European Alzheimer's Disease Consortium panel of dementia specialists was appointed. Through online meetings and emails, positions were developed regarding disclosing a syndrome diagnosis of MCI, pre- and postbiomarker sampling counseling, and postdiagnostic support. RESULTS Prior to diagnostic evaluation, motives and wishes of the patient should be sought. Diagnostic disclosure should be carried out by a dementia specialist taking the ethical principles of "the right to know" versus "the wish not to know" into account. Disclosure should be accompanied by written information and a follow-up plan. It should be made clear that MCI is not dementia. Prebiomarker counseling should always be carried out if biomarker sampling is considered and postbiomarker counseling if sampling is carried out. A dementia specialist knowledgeable about biomarkers should inform about pros and cons, including alternatives, to enable an autonomous and informed decision. Postbiomarker counseling will depend in part on the results of biomarkers. Follow-up should be considered for all patients with MCI and include brain-healthy advice and possibly treatment for specific underlying causes. Advice on advance directives may be relevant. CONCLUSIONS Guidance to clinicians on various aspects of the diagnostic process in patients with MCI is presented here as position statements. Further studies are needed to enable more evidence-based and standardized recommendations in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - T. Rune Nielsen
- Department of NeurologyDanish Dementia Research CentreRigshospitaletCopenhagenDenmark
| | - Bengt Winblad
- Division of NeurogeriatricsDepartment of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and SocietyCenter for Alzheimer ResearchKarolinska InstituteSolnaSweden
- Theme AgingKarolinska University HospitalStockholmSweden
| | | | - Milica G. Kramberger
- Department of NeurologyCenter for Cognitive ImpairmentsUniversity Medical CentreLjubljanaSlovenia
| | - Roy W. Jones
- RICE (The Research Institute for the Care of Older People)Royal United HospitalBath and University of BristolBristolUK
| | - Jakub Hort
- Department of NeurologyCognitive CenterSecond Faculty of Medicine and Motol University HospitalCharles UniversityPragueCzech Republic
| | - Timo Grimmer
- Department of Psychiatry and PsychotherapySchool of MedicineRechts der Isar HospitalTechnical University of MunichMunichGermany
| | | | - Lutz Frölich
- Department of Geriatric PsychiatryUniversity of HeidelbergMannheimGermany
| | - Sebastiaan Engelborghs
- Department of Neurology and Center for NeurosciencesUZ Brussel and Free University of Brussels (VUBBrusselsBelgium
- Reference Center for Biological Markers of Dementia (BIODEM)Institute Born‐BungeUniversity of AntwerpAntwerpBelgium
| | - Bruno Dubois
- Department of NeurologyDementia Research CenterSalpêtrière HospitalSorbonne UniversityParisFrance
| | - Gunhild Waldemar
- Department of NeurologyDanish Dementia Research CentreRigshospitaletCopenhagenDenmark
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7
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Lacerda IB, Santos RL, Belfort T, Neto JPS, Dourado MCN. Domains of awareness in Alzheimer's disease: The influence of executive function. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2021; 36:926-934. [PMID: 33382108 DOI: 10.1002/gps.5495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Awareness is a developing area in dementia research and the evaluation of its domains has been increasingly included as part of care for people with Alzheimer's disease (PwAD). Our aim is to examine whether executive dysfunction is associated with awareness domains. METHODS A consecutive series of 75 people with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease completed assessments about global cognitive function, executive functioning, and their awareness of disease. Their primary caregivers' dyad provided information about demographics, awareness of disease, dementia severity, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and functional status. RESULTS Different types of executive dysfunction were presented as a predictor for awareness of disease (cognitive flexibility, inhibitory control, and working memory), of emotional state (short-term memory and attention) and of social functioning and relationships (visuospatial organization, integrative functions, and abstract thinking). Awareness of cognitive functioning and health condition and of functional activity impairments exhibit only global cognitive function as a predictor. CONCLUSIONS Findings confirm some degree of independence between awareness domains. The importance of identifying differences in domains of awareness relies in the understanding of awareness as a clinical phenomenon in order to guide the management and support of PwAD and their caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel B Lacerda
- Center for Alzheimer's Disease, Institute of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Raquel L Santos
- Center for Alzheimer's Disease, Institute of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Tatiana Belfort
- Center for Alzheimer's Disease, Institute of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - José Pedro S Neto
- Sociology and Political Science Department, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Marcia C N Dourado
- Center for Alzheimer's Disease, Institute of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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8
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Pace A, Koekkoek JAF, van den Bent MJ, Bulbeck HJ, Fleming J, Grant R, Golla H, Henriksson R, Kerrigan S, Marosi C, Oberg I, Oberndorfer S, Oliver K, Pasman HRW, Le Rhun E, Rooney AG, Rudà R, Veronese S, Walbert T, Weller M, Wick W, Taphoorn MJB, Dirven L. Determining medical decision-making capacity in brain tumor patients: why and how? Neurooncol Pract 2020; 7:599-612. [PMID: 33312674 DOI: 10.1093/nop/npaa040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Brain tumor patients are at high risk of impaired medical decision-making capacity (MDC), which can be ethically challenging because it limits their ability to give informed consent to medical treatments or participation in research. The European Association of Neuro-Oncology Palliative Care Multidisciplinary Task Force performed a systematic review to identify relevant evidence with respect to MDC that could be used to give recommendations on how to cope with reduced MDC in brain tumor patients. Methods A literature search in several electronic databases was conducted up to September 2019, including studies with brain tumor and other neurological patients. Information related to the following topics was extracted: tools to measure MDC, consent to treatment or research, predictive patient- and treatment-related factors, surrogate decision making, and interventions to improve MDC. Results A total of 138 articles were deemed eligible. Several structured capacity-assessment instruments are available to aid clinical decision making. These instruments revealed a high incidence of impaired MDC both in brain tumors and other neurological diseases for treatment- and research-related decisions. Incapacity appeared to be mostly determined by the level of cognitive impairment. Surrogate decision making should be considered in case a patient lacks capacity, ensuring that the patient's "best interests" and wishes are guaranteed. Several methods are available that may help to enhance patients' consent capacity. Conclusions Clinical recommendations on how to detect and manage reduced MDC in brain tumor patients were formulated, reflecting among others the timing of MDC assessments, methods to enhance patients' consent capacity, and alternative procedures, including surrogate consent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Pace
- Neuro-Oncology Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Johan A F Koekkoek
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.,Department of Neurology, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Martin J van den Bent
- Department of Neurology, The Brain Tumor Center, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Helen J Bulbeck
- Brainstrust (The Brain Cancer People), Cowes, Isle of Wight, UK
| | - Jane Fleming
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Waterford, Waterford, Ireland
| | - Robin Grant
- Edinburgh Centre for Neuro-Oncology, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Heidrun Golla
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Roger Henriksson
- Department of Radiation Sciences and Oncology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | | | - Christine Marosi
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Clinical Division of Medical Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ingela Oberg
- Department of Neuroscience, Cambridge University Hospitals, Cambridge, UK
| | - Stefan Oberndorfer
- Department Neurology, University Clinic St Pölten, KLPU and KLI-Neurology and Neuropsychology, St Pölten, Austria
| | - Kathy Oliver
- International Brain Tumour Alliance, Tadworth, UK
| | - H Roeline W Pasman
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Emilie Le Rhun
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Alasdair G Rooney
- Division of Psychiatry, University of Edinburgh, Royal Edinburgh Hospital, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Roberta Rudà
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, University and City of Health and Science Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - Simone Veronese
- Department of Palliative Care, Fondazione FARO, Turin, Italy
| | - Tobias Walbert
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan, US
| | - Michael Weller
- Department of Neurology & Brain Tumor Center, University Hospital and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Wolfgang Wick
- Neurology Clinic and National Centre for Tumour Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,German Consortium of Translational Cancer Research (DKTK), Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Martin J B Taphoorn
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.,Department of Neurology, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Linda Dirven
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.,Department of Neurology, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands
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John S, Rowley J, Bartlett K. Assessing patients decision‐making capacity in the hospital setting: A literature review. Aust J Rural Health 2020; 28:141-148. [DOI: 10.1111/ajr.12592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Revised: 10/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Shibu John
- Coffs Harbour Health Campus Mid North Coast Local Health District Coffs Harbour NSW Australia
| | - Joanne Rowley
- Coffs Harbour Health Campus Coffs Harbour NSW Australia
| | - Kerry Bartlett
- Coffs Harbour Health Campus Mid North Coast Local Health District Coffs Harbour NSW Australia
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Comprehension of written texts for the assessment of clinical competence and decision making in people with mild to moderate Alzheimer disease. Neurol Sci 2020; 41:1225-1231. [PMID: 31901122 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-019-04228-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical competence is the term used to describe an individual's capacity to express a choice regarding their participation in clinical procedures or experimental studies. Understanding the information provided is a prerequisite but consent forms are often lengthy and complicated. Alzheimer's disease patients may be vulnerable in written comprehension, due to cognitive deficits, but unfortunately to date, a specific evaluation of this ability is not included in periodical assessments. METHODS One hundred thirty Italian patients with Alzheimer's disease were compared with 130 controls in a comprehension task involving a simplified informed consent form. Their performance in this task was compared with their performance with two other types of reading material (a testament and a history text). In addition, the performance of a subgroup of very mild patients in this test was compared with their performance in a widely used interview for the assessment of clinical competence (MacArthur Competence Assessment Tool for Clinical Research). RESULTS Good sensitivity and specificity of the cut-offs identified consent form and the other texts as good instruments for evaluation of written comprehension. The comprehension of consent form may be compromised since the early stages of Alzheimer's disease. Nevertheless, a simplified, written text may help patients in comparison with interviews (MacCAT-CR). Better performance was correlated to the standard of education and better cognitive functions. CONCLUSION Deficits regarding the comprehension of written texts and the consent form may be early in Alzheimer's disease patients and need to be investigated during periodical neuropsychological assessment. Comprehension may be facilitated by means of specific simplification strategies.
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11
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Mondragón JD, Salame L, Kraus A, De Deyn PP. Clinical Considerations in Physician-Assisted Death for Probable Alzheimer's Disease: Decision-Making Capacity, Anosognosia, and Suffering. Dement Geriatr Cogn Dis Extra 2019; 9:217-226. [PMID: 31275347 PMCID: PMC6600029 DOI: 10.1159/000500183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Requests for physician-assisted death (PAD) in patients with cognitive impairment are complex and require careful consideration. Of particular difficulty is determination of whether the request is voluntary and well considered. Results Euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide (PAS) are both legal in The Netherlands, Luxemburg, Colombia, and Canada. Euthanasia is legal in Belgium, while PAS is legal in Switzerland and Oregon, Washington, Montana, Vermont, and California (USA). Upon a PAD request, evaluation of the capacity to consent medical treatment is relevant for the decision-making process, while evaluation of testamentary capacity is appropriate before an advance euthanasia directive is written. Anosognosia assessment throughout the Alzheimer's disease continuum provides essential and relevant information regarding the voluntary and well-considered nature of the PAD request; meanwhile, early assessment of hypernosognosia or subjective cognitive decline assists in formulation of a clinical prognosis. Furthermore, the assessment of physical and psychological suffering should incorporate verbal and nonverbal cues as well as consideration of the psychosocial factors that might affect due care criteria. Conclusion The clinical approach to a PAD request should consider the legal framework and the decision-making capacity, assess memory deficit awareness and the perception of suffering, and evaluate mental competency when considered pertinent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaime D Mondragón
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.,Alzheimer Research Center Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Latife Salame
- Unidad de Posgrado, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico.,Department of Internal Medicine, The American British Cowdray Medical Center, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Arnoldo Kraus
- Unidad de Posgrado, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico.,Department of Internal Medicine, The American British Cowdray Medical Center, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Peter Paul De Deyn
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.,Alzheimer Research Center Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Behavior, Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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12
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Gilbert T, Bosquet A, Thomas-Antérion C, Bonnefoy M, Le Saux O. Assessing capacity to consent for research in cognitively impaired older patients. Clin Interv Aging 2017; 12:1553-1563. [PMID: 29026293 PMCID: PMC5627738 DOI: 10.2147/cia.s141905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The number of clinical trials including older patients, and particularly patients with cognitive impairment, is increasing. While statutory provisions exist to make sure that the capacity to consent is assessed systematically for each patient, many gray areas remain with regard to how this assessment is made or should be made in the routine practice of clinical research. Objectives The aim of this review was to draw up an inventory of assessment tools evaluating older patients’ capacity to consent specifically applicable to clinical research, which could be used in routine practice. Methods Two authors independently searched PubMed, Cochrane, and Google Scholar data-bases between November 2015 and January 2016. The search was actualized in April 2017. We used keywords (MeSH terms and text words) referring to informed consent, capacity to consent, consent for research, research ethics, cognitive impairment, vulnerable older patients, and assessment tools. Existing reviews were also considered. Results Among the numerous existing tools for assessing capacity to consent, 14 seemed potentially suited for clinical research and six were evaluated in older patients. The MacArthur Competence Assessment Tool for Clinical Research (MacCAT-CR) was the most frequently cited. Conclusion The MacCAT-CR is currently the most used and the best validated questionnaire. However, it appears difficult to use and time-consuming. A more recent tool, the University of California Brief Assessment of Capacity to Consent (UBACC), seems interesting for routine practice because of its simplicity, relevance, and applicability in older patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Gilbert
- Geriatric Department, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon Sud Hospital, Pierre-Bénite, France
| | - Antoine Bosquet
- Internal Medicine Unit, AP-HP - Louis Mourier Hospital, Colombes, France
| | - Catherine Thomas-Antérion
- Plein Ciel, Lyon, France.,Laboratory for the Study of Cognitive Mechanisms, Lyon 2 University, Lyon, France
| | - Marc Bonnefoy
- Geriatric Department, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon Sud Hospital, Pierre-Bénite, France
| | - Olivia Le Saux
- Geriatric Department, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon Sud Hospital, Pierre-Bénite, France
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13
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Abstract
After participating in this activity, learners should be better able to:• Assess the neuropsychological literature on decision making and the medical and legal assessment of capacity in patients with dementia• Identify the limitations of integrating findings from decision-making research into capacity assessments for patients with dementia ABSTRACT: Medical and legal professionals face the challenge of assessing capacity and competency to make medical, legal, and financial decisions in dementia patients with impaired decision making. While such assessments have classically focused on the capacity for complex reasoning and executive functions, research in decision making has revealed that motivational and metacognitive processes are also important. We first briefly review the neuropsychological literature on decision making and on the medical and legal assessment of capacity. Next, we discuss the limitations of integrating findings from decision-making research into capacity assessments, including the group-to-individual inference problem, the unclear role of neuroimaging in capacity assessments, and the lack of capacity measures that integrate important facets of decision making. Finally, we present several case examples where we attempt to demonstrate the potential benefits and important limitations of using decision-making research to aid in capacity determinations.
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Avondino E, Antoine P. Heterogeneity of Cognitive Anosognosia and its Variation with the Severity of Dementia in Patients with Alzheimer's Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2016; 50:89-99. [PMID: 26638866 DOI: 10.3233/jad-150496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Currently, the lack of awareness of deficits, i.e., anosognosia, is a major obstacle in the healthcare circuit that delays the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, a clear framework is lacking in the literature related to this phenomenon in terms of its definition, mechanisms, and objects. The aim of this study is to assess the different levels of cognitive anosognosia using a prediction-performance procedure and to identify the potential correlates of these levels. A sample of patients with probable AD was divided into three groups according to the severity of dementia (mild (MiD), moderate (MoD), and moderately severe (MSD) dementia), ranked according to the results of the Mini-Mental State Examination. We observed the following three scores: the real score, the prediction score, and the anosognosia score. These scores were calculated based on the prediction-performance task MISAwareness from the Dementia Rating Scale for cognitive processes (i.e., Attention, Initiation, Conceptualization, Construction, and Memory). We obtained a strong plateau effect between the MiD and MoD groups for anosognosia scores for actual performance or prediction for both the level of overall functioning and for specific processes. The sole exception was the result for memory processes. Moreover, the profiles of the patients' responses on the Memory subscale were substantially different and, indeed, opposite from those for the other processes. The main results confirm the multidimensionality of anosognosia and its variability with the stage of dementia and specifically implicate memory processes that indicate a cleavage between memory and other cognitive functions.
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15
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Lacerda IB, Sousa MFB, Santos RL, Nogueira MML, Dourado MCN. Concepts and objects of awareness in Alzheimer’s disease: an updated systematic review. JORNAL BRASILEIRO DE PSIQUIATRIA 2016. [DOI: 10.1590/0047-2085000000110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Objectives To compare and discuss the objects of awareness in Alzheimer’s disease (AD): awareness of cognitive deficits, of functional activities, of social-emotional functioning and behavioral impairment. Methods A search in the PsycINFo, Pilots, PubMed/Medline and ISI electronic databases according to Prisma methodology was performed. We included studies about awareness in people with AD published between 2010 and 2015, with the combination of keywords: “Alzheimer AND awareness of deficits”, “Alzheimer AND anosognosia”, “Alzheimer AND insight”, “dementia AND awareness of deficits”, “dementia AND anosognosia”, “dementia AND insight”. The articles were categorized according to the specific object of awareness. Results Seven hundred and ten records were identified and, after application of the exclusion criteria, 191 studies were retrieved for potential use. After excluding the duplicates, 46 studies were included. Most studies assessed the cognitive domain of awareness, followed by the functional, social-emotional, and behavioral impairment domains. Memory deficits were not sufficient to explain impaired awareness in AD. Longitudinal studies did not find discrepancies between patients and caregivers’ reports, indicating that awareness is not related to cognition. Conflicting findings were observed, including the relation between awareness, mood, severity of disease, and personal characteristics. Conclusions The studies show lack of conceptual consensus and significant methodological differences. The inclusion of samples without differentiation of dementia etiology is associated to symptomatic differences, which affect awareness domains. Awareness in AD is a complex and multidimensional construct. Different objects elicit different levels of awareness.
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Verhülsdonk S, Supprian T, Höft B. [Geriatric psychiatric home counseling for people with dementia and anosognosia : Results of a model project]. Z Gerontol Geriatr 2016; 50:219-225. [PMID: 26779708 DOI: 10.1007/s00391-015-1018-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2015] [Revised: 11/30/2015] [Accepted: 12/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lack of awareness of an illness (anosognosia) is a common symptom in dementia and has a significant impact on the course of the disease. It is associated with dysfunctional interaction with caregivers. Due to unawareness patients are not able to accept diagnostic procedures or medical treatment and refuse any kind of support. Thus, they are not integrated into psychosocial networks and medical support. This has a significant impact on patient-centered care in a domestic environment. In this article a model project with home visits to patients with dementia and anosognosia is described. METHOD A total of 55 home visits were carried out. The aim of this project was the integration into the existing healthcare services in order to safeguard the domestic environment. These visits focused on advice and information for the patients and their caregivers initiating the visits. Sociodemographic data of the patient cohort and the satisfaction of the caregiving relatives and general practitioners are presented. RESULTS Subjects with dementia were found to be in advanced stages of the disease, caring situations were complex and required assistance. Caregivers showed a substantial burden in accordance with previous reports. CONCLUSION New strategies are required to cope with anosognosia in patients with dementia and their caregivers. Even single home visits seem to be sufficient to initiate support for subjects with dementia and their relatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Verhülsdonk
- Institutsambulanz Gerontopsychiatrie, LVR-Klinikum Düsseldorf, Kliniken der Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Mooren Str. 5, Gebäude 14.99, 40225, Düsseldorf, Deutschland.
| | - T Supprian
- Institutsambulanz Gerontopsychiatrie, LVR-Klinikum Düsseldorf, Kliniken der Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Mooren Str. 5, Gebäude 14.99, 40225, Düsseldorf, Deutschland
| | - B Höft
- Institutsambulanz Gerontopsychiatrie, LVR-Klinikum Düsseldorf, Kliniken der Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Mooren Str. 5, Gebäude 14.99, 40225, Düsseldorf, Deutschland
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Gambina G, Valbusa V, Corsi N, Ferrari F, Sala F, Broggio E, Condoleo MT, Surdo V, Errera P, Cagnin AC, Moretto G, Moro V. The Italian validation of the Anosognosia Questionnaire for Dementia in Alzheimer's disease. Am J Alzheimers Dis Other Demen 2015; 30:635-44. [PMID: 25792664 PMCID: PMC10852577 DOI: 10.1177/1533317515577185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Although the Anosognosia Questionnaire-Dementia (AQ-D) is one of the main instruments for assessing awareness in Alzheimer's disease (AD), the normative data were until now limited to people from Argentina and Japan. This study aims to validate this instrument in an European context, in particular in an Italian sample. In a multicenter project (Verona, Padova, and Trapani), 130 patients with AD and their caregivers participated in the study. Psychometric characteristics of AQ-D are confirmed indicating that the scale permits the early identification of anosognosia and the correct care management of patients. Indeed, anosognosia results to be present also in patients with very mild AD (moderate: 44.44%; mild: 47.17%; and very mild: 23.73%). Moreover, the results indicate that deficits in awareness may vary in severity and that different types of anosognosia may be identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Gambina
- Department of Neuroscience, Alzheimer's Disease Center, Neurology d.O., University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - V Valbusa
- Department of Neuroscience, Alzheimer's Disease Center, Neurology d.O., University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - N Corsi
- Department of Neuroscience, Alzheimer's Disease Center, Neurology d.O., University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - F Ferrari
- Department of Neuroscience, Alzheimer's Disease Center, Neurology d.O., University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - F Sala
- Department of Neuroscience, Alzheimer's Disease Center, Neurology d.O., University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - E Broggio
- Department of Neuroscience, Alzheimer's Disease Center, Neurology d.O., University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - M T Condoleo
- Department of Neuroscience, Alzheimer's Disease Center, Neurology d.O., University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - V Surdo
- Psychogeriatric and Alzheimer Unit, ASP Trapani, Trapani, Italy
| | - P Errera
- Psychogeriatric and Alzheimer Unit, ASP Trapani, Trapani, Italy
| | - A C Cagnin
- Department of Neuroscience, Neurology Clinic, University Medical School of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - G Moretto
- Department of Neuroscience, Alzheimer's Disease Center, Neurology d.O., University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - V Moro
- Department of Philosophy, Education and Psychology, NPSY.Lab-VR, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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