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Merl H, Veronica Doherty K, Alty J, Salmon K. Truth, hope and the disclosure of a dementia diagnosis: A scoping review of the ethical considerations from the perspective of the person, carer and clinician. DEMENTIA 2022; 21:1050-1068. [PMID: 35134305 DOI: 10.1177/14713012211067882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This paper explores contemporary approaches to balancing truth with the provision of hope during the disclosure of a dementia diagnosis. We discuss the ethical significance of these practices as they relate to each member of the triad - the person, the carer and the clinician - at the point of diagnosis and beyond. The process of disclosing a diagnosis of dementia is complex. It encompasses breaking bad news while balancing hope, with truth about a progressive life-limiting condition. The process of receiving the diagnosis likewise challenges the person who may be unprepared for the diagnosis, while carers seek information and supports. The impact of receiving a diagnosis of dementia can be life-changing and harmful at the personal level - for both the person and carer. This risk of harm becomes a critical consideration for clinicians when deciding on the level of truth: what information should be relayed and to whom? That risk is also balanced against the ethical issue of patient autonomy, which includes the right to know (or not) and make informed decisions about therapeutic interventions. While the consensus is that the autonomy of the person living with dementia must be upheld, controversy exists regarding the extent to which this should occur. For instance, at diagnosis, it is common for clinicians to use euphemisms rather than the word dementia to maintain hope, even though people and carers prefer to know the diagnosis. This practice of therapeutic lying is a pervasive ethical issue in dementia care, made more acceptable by its roots in diagnosis disclosure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helga Merl
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, 60119University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | | | - Jane Alty
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, 60119University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia.,Neurology department, Royal Hobart Hospital, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Katharine Salmon
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, 60119University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
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Jan DL, Delfine D, Eileen VDP, Herlinde VE, Jan S, Birgitte S. The management of dementia by flemish GPs: it remains a difficult job. Acta Clin Belg 2021; 76:264-271. [PMID: 31996112 DOI: 10.1080/17843286.2020.1716462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Objective: The following study examines how GPs in Flanders deal with dementia in terms of detection, diagnosis, care diagnosis and treatment.Methods: An online survey was sent out by mail to 5113 Flemish GP's. Data were collected in 2016. The results were processed in a univariate and multivariate analysis with SAS 9.4Results: 331 GPs completed the survey in full (response rate 6.47%). The results are representative of GPs of the Flemish Region in terms of distribution across the provinces and university of graduation. 82.78% use the MMSE and 5.44% the DSM criteria. A blood analysis was performed by 80.97%, aCT or MRI by 23.56% and 17,22% respectively. Nine out of 331 mapped out the full care planning. The Katz scale was used rarely or never by 25.38%. The physical condition of the caregivers was enquired about by 91.69% and their mental state by 96.92%. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors were prescribed by 94.56%, memantine by 57.70%, ginkgo biloba by 49.85%. 89.73% prefers a medical approach for hallucinations and delusions, 65.26% for aggression, 50.78% for agitation, 71.30% for depression and 48.34% for sleep disorders. Older GPs felt their knowledge was insufficient and used more pharmacological treatments.Conclusion: GPs are unfamiliar with available detection and diagnostic possibilities. GPs include history taking of carers but underuse available support tools, biochemical analyses and imaging. Post diagnostic care is mapped out insufficiently, despite the fact that GPs focus adequately on their patients' caregivers. In the pharmacological treatment there is a notable discrepancy between what GPs think and do. Pharmacological policy in behavioural bymptoms is most common. GPs highly value the possibility of receiving support by reference physicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- De Lepeleire Jan
- Department General Practice, University Leuven, Belgium
- University Psychiatric Hospital KU Leuven (UPC), Belgium
| | - Despriet Delfine
- Department General Practice, Master Education Program, University Leuven, Belgium
| | - Van De Putte Eileen
- Department General Practice, Master Education Program, University Leuven, Belgium
| | - Van Eecke Herlinde
- Department General Practice, Master Education Program, University Leuven, Belgium
| | - Steyaert Jan
- Department of Sociology, Expertisecentrum Dementie, Antwerp, Belgium
- University Antwerp
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3
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Mormont E, Bier JC, Bruffaerts R, Cras P, De Deyn P, Deryck O, Engelborghs S, Petrovic M, Picard G, Segers K, Thiery E, Versijpt J, Hanseeuw B. Practices and opinions about disclosure of the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease to patients with MCI or dementia: a survey among Belgian medical experts in the field of dementia. Acta Neurol Belg 2020; 120:1157-1163. [PMID: 32715405 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-020-01448-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Previous surveys revealed that only a minority of clinicians routinely disclosed the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) to their patients. Many health professionals fear that the disclosure could be harmful to the patient. Recent advances in the development of biomarkers and new diagnostic criteria allow for an earlier diagnosis of AD at the mild cognitive impairment (MCI) stage. The Belgian Dementia Council, a group of Belgian experts in the field of dementia, performed a survey among its 44 members about their opinions and practices regarding disclosure of the diagnosis of AD, including MCI due to AD, and its consequences. Twenty-six respondents declared that they often or always disclose the diagnosis of AD to patients with dementia and to patients with MCI when AD CSF biomarkers are abnormal. The majority observed that the disclosure of AD is rarely or never harmful to the patients. Their patients and their caregivers rarely or never demonstrated animosity towards the clinicians following disclosure of the diagnosis of AD. These results should reassure clinicians about the safety of AD diagnosis disclosure in most cases whether the patient is at the MCI or the dementia stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Mormont
- Department of Neurology, CHU UCL Namur, UCLouvain, 1 Avenue Dr G. Therasse, 5530, Yvoir, Belgium.
- Institute of NeuroScience, UCLouvain, 1200, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Jean-Christophe Bier
- Department of Neurology, Erasme University Hospital, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Rose Bruffaerts
- Laboratory for Cognitive Neurology, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Neurology Department, University Hospitals Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Patrick Cras
- Department of Neurology, Instituut Born Bunge, Antwerp University Hospital, Universiteit Antwerpen, 2650, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Peter De Deyn
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Behavior, Reference Center for Biological Markers of Dementia (BIODEM), Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Neurology and Memory Clinic, Hospital Network Antwerp (ZNA) Middelheim and Hoge Beuken, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Olivier Deryck
- Department of Neurology, Center for Cognitive Disorders, AZ Sint-Jan Brugge-Oostende, Brugge, Belgium
| | - Sebastiaan Engelborghs
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Behavior, Reference Center for Biological Markers of Dementia (BIODEM), Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Neurology and Center for Neurosciences, UZ Brussel and Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mirko Petrovic
- Section of Geriatrics, Department of Internal Medicine and Paediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Geriatrics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Gaëtane Picard
- Department of Neurology, Clinique St Pierre, Ottignies, Belgium
| | - Kurt Segers
- Department of Neurology, Brugmann University Hospital, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Evert Thiery
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Ghent, Ghent University, C. Heymanslaan, 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jan Versijpt
- Department of Neurology and Center for Neurosciences, UZ Brussel and Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bernard Hanseeuw
- Institute of NeuroScience, UCLouvain, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, UCLouvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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4
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Abstract
In many countries around the world, owing to the lack of specialists and equipment, delay up to a few years in help-seeking and getting diagnostic examinations for dementia is not uncommon (Sayegh and Knight, 2013), and this situation is considerably more serious in "atypical dementias" due to the challenge they present for differential diagnosis. For instance, a survey in the USA showed that misdiagnosis was common in patients with Lewy body dementia who, on average, saw at least three physicians over a year's time or more before getting the proper diagnosis (Lewy Body Dementia Association, 2010). Furthermore, in multiethnic communities, cultural and language barriers between practitioners and patients may lead to substantial delay as well (Sayegh and Knight, 2013).
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Conejero I, Navucet S, Keller J, Olié E, Courtet P, Gabelle A. A Complex Relationship Between Suicide, Dementia, and Amyloid: A Narrative Review. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:371. [PMID: 29910709 PMCID: PMC5992441 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Suicide rates are high among older adults and many conditions have been related to suicide in this population: chronic illnesses, physical disabilities, cancer, social isolation, mental disorders and neurocognitive disorders. Objectives: Among neurocognitive disorders, analysis of the relationships between dementia and suicidal behaviors led to conflicting results and some questions are still without answer. Particularly, it is not known whether (i) Alzheimer's disease (AD) increases the risk of suicidal ideation and suicide attempts (SA) or the frequency of death by suicide; (ii) the presence of suicidal ideation or SA in people older than 65 years of age is an early dementia sign; and (iii) amyloid load in frontal areas facilitates SA by modifying the decision-making pathway. Methods: Therefore, in this narrative review, we searched the PubMed database using the medical subject heading (MeSH) terms (“Suicide” AND “Depression”) OR (“Amyloid” OR “Dementia”) to identify recent (from 2000 to 2017) original studies on the links between suicidal behavior, dementia and brain amyloid load. We also explored the clinical and pathophysiological role of depression in these relationships. Results and Discussion: The findings from these studies suggest that late stage dementia could protect against suicidal ideation and SA. Conversely, the risk of complete suicide is increased during the early phase of cognitive decline. Conclusions: Serious cognitive impairment and decline of executive functions could protect against negative thoughts related to cognitive disability awareness and against suicide planning.Several factors, including brain amyloid load, could be involved in the increased suicide rate early after the diagnosis of dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismael Conejero
- Department of Psychiatry, Caremeau Hospital, University Hospital of Nîmes, Nîmes, France.,Inserm U1061, Neuropsychiatry: Epidemiological and Clinical Research, La Colombière Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,Centre de Biochimie Structurale, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Sophie Navucet
- Department of Montpellier, Memory Resources Research Center, Gui De Chauliac Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Jacques Keller
- Department of Montpellier, Memory Resources Research Center, Gui De Chauliac Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Emilie Olié
- Inserm U1061, Neuropsychiatry: Epidemiological and Clinical Research, La Colombière Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,Department of Psychiatric Emergency and Post-Acute Care, Lapeyronie Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Philippe Courtet
- Inserm U1061, Neuropsychiatry: Epidemiological and Clinical Research, La Colombière Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,Department of Psychiatric Emergency and Post-Acute Care, Lapeyronie Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Audrey Gabelle
- Inserm U1061, Neuropsychiatry: Epidemiological and Clinical Research, La Colombière Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,Department of Montpellier, Memory Resources Research Center, Gui De Chauliac Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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6
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Abstract
Suicidal behavior in older adults (65 years old and over) is a major public health issue in many countries. Suicide rates increase during the life course and are as high as 48.7/100,000 among older white men in the USA. Specific health conditions and stress factors increase the complexity of the explanatory model for suicide in older adults. A PubMed literature search was performed to identify most recent and representative studies on suicide risk factors in older adults. The aim of our narrative review was to provide a critical evaluation of recent findings concerning specific risk factors for suicidal thoughts and behaviors among older people: psychiatric and neurocognitive disorders, social exclusion, bereavement, cognitive impairment, decision making and cognitive inhibition, physical illnesses, and physical and psychological pain. We also aimed to approach the problem of euthanasia or physician-assisted suicide in older adults. Our main findings emphasize the need to integrate specific stress factors, such as feelings of social disconnectedness, neurocognitive impairment or decision making, as well as chronic physical illnesses and disability in suicide models and in suicide prevention programs in older adults. Furthermore, the chronic care model should be adapted for the treatment of older people with long-term conditions in order to improve the treatment of depressive disorders and the prevention of suicidal thoughts and acts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismael Conejero
- Institut National de la Santé Et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), University of Montpellier, Neuropsychiatry: Epidemiological and Clinical Research, Montpellier, France.,Department of Emergency Psychiatry and Post-Acute Care, Lapeyronie Hospital, Center Hospitalier Universitairere (CHU) Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Emilie Olié
- Institut National de la Santé Et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), University of Montpellier, Neuropsychiatry: Epidemiological and Clinical Research, Montpellier, France.,Department of Emergency Psychiatry and Post-Acute Care, Lapeyronie Hospital, Center Hospitalier Universitairere (CHU) Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,FondaMental Foundation, Créteil, France
| | - Philippe Courtet
- Institut National de la Santé Et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), University of Montpellier, Neuropsychiatry: Epidemiological and Clinical Research, Montpellier, France.,Department of Emergency Psychiatry and Post-Acute Care, Lapeyronie Hospital, Center Hospitalier Universitairere (CHU) Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,FondaMental Foundation, Créteil, France
| | - Raffaella Calati
- Institut National de la Santé Et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), University of Montpellier, Neuropsychiatry: Epidemiological and Clinical Research, Montpellier, France.,Department of Emergency Psychiatry and Post-Acute Care, Lapeyronie Hospital, Center Hospitalier Universitairere (CHU) Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,FondaMental Foundation, Créteil, France
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Low LF, McGrath M, Swaffer K, Brodaty H. Communicating a diagnosis of dementia: A systematic mixed studies review of attitudes and practices of health practitioners. DEMENTIA 2018; 18:2856-2905. [PMID: 29544345 DOI: 10.1177/1471301218761911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to systematically review practitioners’ practices and attitudes in regards to communicating a diagnosis of dementia. A systematic search was conducted of Scopus, Web of Science and PubMed for English language original empirical papers. A sequential explanatory mixed studies analysis approach was used. Twenty-five quantitative descriptive, two intervention, six mixed methods descriptive and 21 qualitative studies were included. Pooled analysis showed that 34% of GPs and 48% of specialists usually/routinely tell the person with dementia their diagnosis, and 89% of GPs and 97% specialists usually/routinely tell the family the diagnosis. Euphemistic terms such as ‘memory problems’ are more often used to describe dementia than medical terms. Practitioners’ decision to diagnose and communicate the diagnosis of dementia are influenced by (a) their own beliefs regarding dementia and treatment efficacy and their confidence in diagnosis and communication; (b) patient circumstances including level of awareness, level of severity and family support; (c) the health and social care system including access to specialist and diagnostic services, reimbursement for diagnosis/management and availability of services and (d) cultural norms in relation to dementia including stigma, labels, and common clinical practice. The diagnosis and communication of diagnosis of dementia are intertwined processes and should be concurrently addressed in interventions. Multicomponent approaches to address these practices could include guideline development, practitioner education, anti-stigma public health campaigns, offering post-diagnosis treatments and support and sufficient reimbursement for practitioners for time spent managing dementia.
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8
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Mastwyk M, Dow B, Ellis KA, Ames D. Why attend a memory clinic? What do patients and their families want and/or expect? Australas J Ageing 2016; 35:220-4. [PMID: 26970418 DOI: 10.1111/ajag.12257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore which symptoms led people to seek a memory clinic assessment and what they wanted and expected from that assessment. Did the patient and family want and/or expect diagnostic disclosure and, if so, why? METHODS Patients scheduled for memory clinic appoint-ments received two questionnaires by post prior to clinic attendance - one for the patient, one for the next-of- kin - regarding symptomatology, wants, expectations and rationale. RESULTS Ninety-two per cent of patients (n = 47) and 88% (n = 43) of next-of-kin wanted the patient to be informed of the diagnosis; 84% (n = 43) of patients and 86% (n = 42) of next-of-kin expected the patient to be informed. Rationales for diagnostic disclosure were categorised under themes of planning, treatment, information, coping strategies and rights. CONCLUSIONS Patients and families want diagnostic disclosure in order to plan, receive treatment, receive help and learn strategies to cope. This knowledge is seen as the patient's right.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maree Mastwyk
- Clinical Research Group, Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Briony Dow
- Preventive and Public Health, National Ageing Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kathryn A Ellis
- Academic Unit for Psychiatry of Old Age, Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - David Ames
- University of Melbourne, Department of Psychiatry, St. Georges Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Abstract
This article reviews the current recommendations in early diagnosis and the desires of the patients and their relatives, put in perspective with the reality of the clinical practices. More specific situations covered are: (1) the issue of young diseased patients, taking into account the psychological implications of the early occurrence of the disease in life and of the longer delay for these patients between the first observable signs and the diagnosis and (2) the issue of genetic testing, taking into account the implications of this extremely early form of bad news on the individual's existence and on the family structure.
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10
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Current knowledge and future directions about the disclosure of dementia: A systematic review of the first decade of the 21st century. Alzheimers Dement 2012; 9:e74-88. [PMID: 23098912 DOI: 10.1016/j.jalz.2012.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2011] [Revised: 02/16/2012] [Accepted: 02/29/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Aminzadeh F, Molnar FJ, Dalziel WB, Ayotte D. A review of barriers and enablers to diagnosis and management of persons with dementia in primary care. Can Geriatr J 2012; 15:85-94. [PMID: 23259021 PMCID: PMC3521322 DOI: 10.5770/cgj.15.42] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background With the rise in the prevalence of dementia disorders and the growing critical impact of dementia on health-care resources, the provision of dementia care has increasingly come under scrutiny, with primary care physicians (PCP) being at the centre of such attention. Purpose To critically examine barriers and enablers to timely diagnosis and optimal management of community living persons with dementia (PWD) in primary care. Methods An interpretive scoping review was used to synthesize and analyze an extensive body of heterogeneous Western literature published over the past decade. Results The current primary care systems in many Western countries, including Canada, face many challenges in providing responsive, comprehensive, safe, and cost-effective dementia care. This paper has identified a multitude of highly inter-related obstacles to optimal primary dementia care, including challenges related to: a) the complex biomedical, psychosocial, and ethical nature of the condition; b) the gaps in knowledge, skills, attitudes, and resources of PWD/caregivers and their primary care providers; and c) the broader systemic and structural barriers negatively affecting the context of dementia care. Conclusions Further progress will require a coordinated campaign and significantly increased levels of commitment and effort, which should be ideally orchestrated by national dementia strategies focusing on the barriers and enablers identified in this paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faranak Aminzadeh
- Regional Geriatric Program of Eastern Ontario (RGPEO), Bruyère Research Institute (BRI), and School of Nursing, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON
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12
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Experiences of the patients and their caregivers regarding the disclosure of the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease: a Belgian retrospective survey. Acta Neurol Belg 2012; 112:249-54. [PMID: 22527789 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-012-0069-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2012] [Accepted: 03/30/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Although the disclosure of the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is recommended by several guidelines, many clinicians do not announce the diagnosis to their patient. One of the main arguments against disclosure is the fear of a depressive reaction. Our aim was to report the experience and agreement of patients and their caregivers regarding the disclosure of the diagnosis of AD. All the patients with a diagnosis of AD attending our memory clinic were screened during 1 year. The patients and their caregivers were interviewed with a structured questionnaire. We included 108 patients (mean age = 77; Mini-Mental State Examination = 21) and matched caregivers (mean age 65). Twenty-nine percent of patients said they had suffered when the diagnosis was disclosed and 5% wished they had not been informed. Four percent felt more sad or depressed and 14% more anxious since the disclosure. The caregivers reported that 32% of patients had suffered from the disclosure, but only 15% were still suffering. In 85% of cases, the caregivers thought that the disclosure was useful. If they could go back in time and decide whether to disclose or not the diagnosis, only 4% of caregivers would retrospectively disagree to disclose the diagnosis to the patient. The disclosure of AD can induce anxiety and sadness. However, these negative feelings seem to persist only in a minority of patients. The vast majority of patients and caregivers agrees with the disclosure.
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13
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Morris JC. Revised criteria for mild cognitive impairment may compromise the diagnosis of Alzheimer disease dementia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 69:700-8. [PMID: 22312163 DOI: 10.1001/archneurol.2011.3152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the potential impact of revised criteria for mild cognitive impairment (MCI), developed by a work group sponsored by the National Institute on Aging and the Alzheimer's Association, on the diagnosis of very mild and mild Alzheimer disease (AD)dementia. DESIGN Retrospective review of ratings of functional impairment across diagnostic categories. SETTING Alzheimer's Disease Centers and the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center. PARTICIPANTS Individuals (N=17 535) with normal cognition,MCI, or AD dementia. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The functional ratings of individuals with normal cognition, MCI, or AD dementia who were evaluated at Alzheimer's Disease Centers and submitted to the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center were assessed in accordance with the definition of "functional independence" allowed by the revised criteria. Pairwise demographic differences between the 3 diagnostic groups were tested using t tests for continuous variables and 2 for categorical variables. RESULTS Almost all (99.8%) individuals currently diagnosed with very mild AD dementia and the large majority(92.7%) of those diagnosed with mild AD dementia could be reclassified as having MCI with the revised criteria,based on their level of impairment in the Clinical Dementia Rating domains for performance of instrumental activities of daily living in the community and at home.Large percentages of these individuals with AD dementia also meet the revised "functional independence" criterion for MCI as measured by the Functional Assessment Questionnaire. CONCLUSIONS The categorical distinction between MCI and milder stages of AD dementia has been compromised by the revised criteria. The resulting diagnostic overlap supports the premise that "MCI due to AD" represents the earliest symptomatic stage of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- John C Morris
- Departments of Neurology, Pathology, and Immunology and Programs in Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy, Washington University, St Louis, MO 63108, USA.
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14
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Donath C, Gräßel E, Großfeld-Schmitz M, Menn P, Lauterberg J, Wunder S, Marx P, Ruckdäschel S, Mehlig H, Holle R. Effects of general practitioner training and family support services on the care of home-dwelling dementia patients--results of a controlled cluster-randomized study. BMC Health Serv Res 2010; 10:314. [PMID: 21087474 PMCID: PMC2996386 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6963-10-314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2010] [Accepted: 11/18/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND More than 90% of dementia patients are cared for by their general practitioners, who are decisively involved in the diagnosis, therapy and recommendation of support services. OBJECTIVE To test whether special training of general practitioners alters the care of dementia patients through their systematic recommendation of caregiver counseling and support groups. METHOD 129 general practitioners enrolled 390 dementia patients and their informal caregivers in a prospective, three-arm cluster-randomized 2-year study. Arm A constituted usual care, in Arm B and C support groups and caregiver counseling (in Arm B one year after baseline, in Arm C at baseline) were recommended by the general practitioners. The general practitioners received arm-specific training. Diagnostic and therapeutic behavior of physicians was recorded at baseline. Informal caregivers were questioned in follow-up after 2 years about the utilization of support services. RESULTS The diagnostic behavior of the general practitioners conforms to relevant guidelines. The procedure in newly-diagnosed patients does not differ from previously diagnosed patients with the exception of the rate of referral to a specialist. About one-third of the newly-diagnosed dementia patients are given an anti-dementia drug. The utilization of support groups and counseling increased five- and fourfold, respectively. Utilization of other support services remained low (< 10%), with the exception of home nursing and institutional short-term nursing. CONCLUSION Trained general practitioners usually act in conformity with guidelines with respect to diagnosing dementia, and partly in conformity with the guidelines with respect to recommended drug therapy. Recommendations of support services for informal caregivers by the general practitioner are successful. They result in a marked increase in the utilization rate for the recommended services compared to offers which are not recommended by the general practitioner. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN68329593.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolin Donath
- Psychiatric University Clinic Erlangen, Schwabachanlage 6, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Elmar Gräßel
- Psychiatric University Clinic Erlangen, Schwabachanlage 6, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Petra Menn
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Jörg Lauterberg
- Federal Association of the AOK, Rosenthalerstr. 31, 10178 Berlin, Germany
| | - Sonja Wunder
- AOK Bavaria - Health insurer, Stromerstraße 5, 90443 Nürnberg, Germany
| | - Peter Marx
- Pfizer Deutschland GmbH, Linkstrasse 10, 10785 Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | - Rolf Holle
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
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15
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Schoenmakers B, Buntinx F, Delepeleire J. Supporting family carers of community-dwelling elder with cognitive decline: a randomized controlled trial. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FAMILY MEDICINE 2010; 2010:184152. [PMID: 22332005 PMCID: PMC3276197 DOI: 10.1155/2010/184152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2009] [Revised: 01/13/2010] [Accepted: 04/06/2010] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Objective. Caring for a patient with cognitive decline has an important impact on the general well-being of family caregivers. Although highly appreciated, interventions in dementia home care remain mainly ineffective in terms of well-being. Consequently, in spite of an extensive support system, abrupt ending of home care remains more rule than exception. Method. The hypothesis was that the intervention of a care counselor, coordinating care in quasi-unstructured way during one year, will alleviate caregivers' feelings of depression. The study population was composed of community-dwelling patients with cognitive decline. A care counselor was at the exclusive disposal of the intervention group. Primary outcome measure was caregiver depression. Results. Finally, depression was 6.25 times less frequent in the intervention group. The actual intervention appeared minimal with only ten applications for more support followed by only three interventions effectively carried out. Although caregivers felt burdened and depressed, formal support remained stable. On the other hand, the availability of the care counselor made caregivers feel less depressed with the same amount of support. Conclusion. Carers do not always need to be surrounded with more professionals, but they want to feel more supported. In terms of policy, this could have some important implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birgitte Schoenmakers
- Academic Centre of General Practice, Catholic University Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 33, Blok J, box 7001, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Frank Buntinx
- Academic Centre of General Practice, Catholic University Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 33, Blok J, box 7001, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jan Delepeleire
- Academic Centre of General Practice, Catholic University Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 33, Blok J, box 7001, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Holle R, Gräßel E, Ruckdäschel S, Wunder S, Mehlig H, Marx P, Pirk O, Butzlaff M, Kunz S, Lauterberg J. Dementia care initiative in primary practice: study protocol of a cluster randomized trial on dementia management in a general practice setting. BMC Health Serv Res 2009; 9:91. [PMID: 19500383 PMCID: PMC2702286 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6963-9-91] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2009] [Accepted: 06/06/2009] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current guidelines for dementia care recommend the combination of drug therapy with non-pharmaceutical measures like counselling and social support. However, the scientific evidence concerning non-pharmaceutical interventions for dementia patients and their informal caregivers remains inconclusive. Targets of modern comprehensive dementia care are to enable patients to live at home as long and as independent as possible and to reduce the burden of caregivers. The objective of the study is to compare a complex intervention including caregiver support groups and counselling against usual care in terms of time to nursing home placement. In this paper the study protocol is described. METHODS/DESIGN The IDA (Initiative Demenzversorgung in der Allgemeinmedizin) project is designed as a three armed cluster-randomized trial where dementia patients and their informal caregivers are recruited by general practitioners. Patients in the study region of Middle Franconia, Germany, are included if they have mild or moderate dementia, are at least 65 years old, and are members of the German AOK (Allgemeine Ortskrankenkasse) sickness fund. In the control group patients receive regular treatment, whereas in the two intervention groups general practitioners participate in a training course in evidence based dementia treatment, recommend support groups and offer counseling to the family caregivers either beginning at baseline or after the 1-year follow-up. The study recruitment and follow-up took place from July 2005 to January 2009. 303 general practitioners were randomized of which 129 recruited a total of 390 patients. Time to nursing home admission within the two year intervention and follow-up period is the primary endpoint. Secondary endpoints are cognitive status, activities of daily living, burden of care giving as well as healthcare costs. For an economic analysis from the societal perspective, data are collected from caregivers as well as by the use of routine data from statutory health insurance and long-term care insurance. DISCUSSION From a public health perspective, the IDA trial is expected to lead to evidence based results on the community effectiveness of non-pharmaceutical support measures for dementia patients and their caregivers in the primary care sector. For health policy makers it is necessary to make their decisions about financing new services based on strong knowledge about the acceptance of measures in the population and their cost-effectiveness. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN68329593.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rolf Holle
- Institute of Health Economics and Health Care Management, Helmholtz Zentrum, München, Germany
- German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Elmar Gräßel
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | - Olaf Pirk
- Health Economics and Outcomes Research, IMS Health GmbH & Co. OHG, Nürnberg, Germany
| | - Martin Butzlaff
- Competence Center for General Practice and Outpatients' Health Care, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - Simone Kunz
- Institute of Health Economics and Health Care Management, Helmholtz Zentrum, München, Germany
- German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Jörg Lauterberg
- Federal Association of the AOK, Berlin, Germany, and Institute for Patient Safety, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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17
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What Belgian Neurologists and Neuropsychiatrists Tell Their Patients With Alzheimer Disease and Why. Alzheimer Dis Assoc Disord 2009; 23:33-7. [PMID: 18695591 DOI: 10.1097/wad.0b013e31817d5e4c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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18
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Kootte M, Steverink N. [Psychologists and openness concerning the diagnosis of dementia to the patient: exploratory research]. Tijdschr Gerontol Geriatr 2008; 39:90-99. [PMID: 18637396 DOI: 10.1007/bf03078134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
AIM To explore the openness about the diagnosis dementia amongst psychologists the following questions were asked. What is their opinion about openness concerning the diagnosis of dementia? What do they actually tell their patients? Why do or don't they mention dementia? METHOD A semistructured questionnaire was given to 17 psychologists working in the North of the Netherlands. They were asked to report on their intention to be open about the diagnosis dementia in general and after neuropsychological examination of 90 patients. These answers were compared to what was actually said to the 90 patients. The collected data have been analyzed mainly qualitatively. RESULTS Essentially psychologists believe that patients need to be informed openly about the diagnosis of dementia. In practice nearly all psychologists also intended to mention the diagnosis of dementia. However, in about a third of the cases, where the results indicated dementia, this was not mentioned openly. Whether or not the diagnosis dementia is discussed openly and in which way, appears to depend on the context and the clarity of the diagnosis, the wishes and reaction of the carer and whether the patient is judged to be able to cope. CONCLUSION Just like physicians, psychologists are not, as a matter of course, open about the diagnosis of dementia to their patients. Circumstances appear to guide them more than their own opinion about what is appropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Kootte
- Universitair Mledisch Centrum Groningen (UMCG) en Rijksuniversiteit Groningen (RUG).
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19
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Lecouturier J, Bamford C, Hughes JC, Francis JJ, Foy R, Johnston M, Eccles MP. Appropriate disclosure of a diagnosis of dementia: identifying the key behaviours of 'best practice'. BMC Health Serv Res 2008; 8:95. [PMID: 18452594 PMCID: PMC2408568 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6963-8-95] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2007] [Accepted: 05/01/2008] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite growing evidence that many people with dementia want to know their diagnosis, there is wide variation in attitudes of professionals towards disclosure. The disclosure of the diagnosis of dementia is increasingly recognised as being a process rather than a one-off behaviour. However, the different behaviours that contribute to this process have not been comprehensively defined. No intervention studies to improve diagnostic disclosure in dementia have been reported to date. As part of a larger study to develop an intervention to promote appropriate disclosure, we sought to identify important disclosure behaviours and explore whether supplementing a literature review with other methods would result in the identification of new behaviours. Methods To identify a comprehensive list of behaviours in disclosure we conducted a literature review, interviewed people with dementia and informal carers, and used a consensus process involving health and social care professionals. Content analysis of the full list of behaviours was carried out. Results Interviews were conducted with four people with dementia and six informal carers. Eight health and social care professionals took part in the consensus panel. From the interviews, consensus panel and literature review 220 behaviours were elicited, with 109 behaviours over-lapping. The interviews and consensus panel elicited 27 behaviours supplementary to the review. Those from the interviews appeared to be self-evident but highlighted deficiencies in current practice and from the panel focused largely on balancing the needs of people with dementia and family members. Behaviours were grouped into eight categories: preparing for disclosure; integrating family members; exploring the patient's perspective; disclosing the diagnosis; responding to patient reactions; focusing on quality of life and well-being; planning for the future; and communicating effectively. Conclusion This exercise has highlighted the complexity of the process of disclosing a diagnosis of dementia in an appropriate manner. It confirms that many of the behaviours identified in the literature (often based on professional opinion rather than empirical evidence) also resonate with people with dementia and informal carers. The presence of contradictory behaviours emphasises the need to tailor the process of disclosure to individual patients and carers. Our combined methods may be relevant to other efforts to identify and define complex clinical practices for further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Lecouturier
- Institute of Health and Society, Newcastle University, The Medical School, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
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Kaduszkiewicz H, Wiese B, van den Bussche H. Self-reported competence, attitude and approach of physicians towards patients with dementia in ambulatory care: results of a postal survey. BMC Health Serv Res 2008; 8:54. [PMID: 18321394 PMCID: PMC2289812 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6963-8-54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2007] [Accepted: 03/06/2008] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Caring for patients with dementia is a demanding task. Little is known as to whether physicians feel competent enough to perform this task or whether a lack of self-perceived competence influences attitudes and professional approach. Even less is known with respect to potential differences between general practitioners (GPs) and specialists. The purpose of this study was to investigate the interrelationship between the self-perceived competence, attitude and professional approach of physicians in ambulatory care in Germany. A further aim was to compare GPs and specialists with regard to differences in these areas. Methods A standardised postal survey was sent to 389 GPs and 239 neurologists and psychiatrists in six metropolitan areas in Germany. The 49-item questionnaire consisted of attitudinal statements to be rated on a Likert-type scale. Return rates were 54 percent for GPs and 40 percent for specialists. Statistical methods used to analyze data included correlation analysis, cluster analysis and ordinal regression analysis. Results No differences were found between GPs and specialists with regard to their general attitude towards caring for patients with dementia. Approximately 15 percent of both disciplines showed a clearly negative attitude. Self-reported competence was strongly associated with general attitude. In particular among GPs, and less so among specialists, a strong positive association was found between self-reported competence, general attitude and professional approach (e.g. early detection, active case finding and cooperation with caregivers). Differences between GPs and specialists were smaller than expected and appear to predominantly reflect task differences within the German health care system. Conclusion Training opportunities which enable in particular GPs to enhance not only their competence but also their general attitude towards dementia care would appear to be beneficial and might carry positive consequences for patients and their caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Kaduszkiewicz
- Department of Primary Medical Care, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
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21
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Mitchell AJ. Reluctance to disclose difficult diagnoses: a narrative review comparing communication by psychiatrists and oncologists. Support Care Cancer 2007; 15:819-28. [PMID: 17333297 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-007-0226-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2006] [Accepted: 01/29/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION National guidance in most medical specialties supports the full and open disclosure of diagnoses to patients. RESULTS Surveys show that most patients want to know their diagnosis, whether it is medical or psychiatric, and a substantial proportion want to know detailed prognostic information. In the past, oncologists have been criticised for failing to reveal a diagnosis of cancer to patients in a sensitive and timely manner. Over the last 30 years, there is evidence that this practice has improved. Yet, clinicians still have difficulty when the diagnosis is not certain, when the prognosis is unfavourable, and when relatives request "not to tell." All of these influences are present in mental health settings. DISCUSSION Psychiatrists and general practitioners may be equally reluctant to reveal difficult diagnoses and prognoses of conditions such as schizophrenia and dementia. The reluctance to reveal a difficult diagnosis may be a routine, but little acknowledged the aspect of medical care that should be incorporated into undergraduate and postgraduate education and openly discussed during peer group supervision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex J Mitchell
- Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Osbourne Building, Leicester LE1 5WW, UK.
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Fisk JD, Beattie BL, Donnelly M, Byszewski A, Molnar FJ. Disclosure of the diagnosis of dementia. Alzheimers Dement 2007; 3:404-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jalz.2007.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2007] [Accepted: 07/12/2007] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Lämmler G, Stechl E, Steinhagen-Thiessen E. [On disclosing a diagnosis of dementia]. Z Gerontol Geriatr 2007; 40:81-7. [PMID: 17450407 DOI: 10.1007/s00391-007-0439-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2007] [Accepted: 02/02/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Disclosing a diagnosis of dementia to the patient has become a scientific topic only in the last decade. This review gives an up-to-date account of ongoing research. After an introductory discussion of the pros and cons, the unsatisfactory situation of disclosure in the European Union is analysed. Afterwards, the wish of being told a diagnosis of dementia among healthy old people, people with dementia and their relatives is described. The first empirical studies about coping with the diagnosis are presented. Suggestions of new directions in coping research are made. Finally, recommendations for communicating the diagnosis to the patient and the family are given.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Lämmler
- Forschungsgruppe Geriatrie am Evangelischen Geriatriezentrum Berlin gGmbH, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
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Abstract
Compared with other neurologic problems, few films have been dedicated to degenerative dementia. To our knowledge, this is the first systematic review about the way in which dementia patients and their medical care are described in films. Twenty-four of the 53 relevant films that were found in online movie databases could be viewed. The author describes the demographics of the characters suffering from dementia, the clinical picture including neuropsychiatric manifestations, diagnostic procedures, medical follow-up, pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatment and the attitude of the caregivers. Most characters are played by actors in their seventh or eighth decade. There is an overrepresentation of highly educated people. Although the clinical picture is often accurate, some films suggest that even in the late stages of the disease patients have sudden moments of full insight in their disease. Among the neuropsychiatric signs, activity disturbances and aggressiveness are most often described. Few patients seek medical help, only 2 patients take acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and follow-up is absent for 5 of the 11 relevant patients. Only in 10 of 23 films, the term "Alzheimer" is used. Although there is a growing cinematographic interest in Alzheimer patients, even recent films tend to reinforce therapeutic and even diagnostic nihilism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurt Segers
- Memory Clinic of the Department of Neurology, and Memory Clinic of the Day Care Hospital of the Geriatric Department, Brugmann University Hospital, Place A. Van Gehuchten 4, 1020 Brussels, Belgium.
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Cantegreil-Kallen I, Turbelin C, Olaya E, Blanchon T, Moulin F, Rigaud AS, Flahault A. Disclosure of diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease in French general practice. Am J Alzheimers Dis Other Demen 2005; 20:228-32. [PMID: 16136846 PMCID: PMC10833220 DOI: 10.1177/153331750502000404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Most practitioners find disclosing the diagnosis of Alzheimer s disease (AD) to an individual with dementia very difficult. Literature results show a wide variability in attitudes and clinicalpractice, and diagnosis seems to be more often disclosed to caregivers than to patients. The objective of this study was to examine whether and how diagnosis of AD is disclosed in French general practice and which issues are addressed with the patient. A questionnaire was sent via mail to 1,629 general practitioners (GPs), 1,105 belonging to the Sentinel's network and 524 specially recruited doctors practicing in the Rhône-Alpes region. A total of 631 questionnaires were returned (response rate, 39 percent), of which 616 were eligible for analysis. Twenty-eight percent of GPs reported having disclosed diagnosis to the patient (25 percent mentioned "Alzheimer's disease"), whereas 88 percent considered it their role to announce the diagnosis to the patient. Regarding the type of information provided to the patient, only 25 percent discussed the nature of the illness, 23 percent behavioral problems, and 47 percent depression, mainly for psychological reasons (63 percent). Stress was discussed with 79 percent of the caregivers. We concluded that GPs do not discuss the consquences of AD and symptoms (e.g., behavioral disorders) with patients, mainly for psychological reasons, whereas they have a less-reluctant attitude toward caregivers. As the GP has the weighty task of providing ropriate community care and psychological support to the patient, it is of utmost importance to reflect on how disclosure of diagnosis can be facilitated.
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