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Molendijk-van Nieuwenhuyzen K, Belt-van Opstal R, Hakvoort L, Dikken J. Exploring geriatric trauma unit experiences through patients' eyes: a qualitative study. BMC Geriatr 2024; 24:476. [PMID: 38816688 PMCID: PMC11140891 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-024-05023-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The surgical management of older patients is complex due to age-related underlying comorbidities and decreased physiological reserves. Comanaged care models, such as the Geriatric Trauma Unit, are proven effective in treating the complex needs of patients with fall-related injuries. While patient-centered care is an important feature of these comanaged care models, there has been minimal research dedicated to investigating the patient experience within Geriatric Trauma Units. Therefore, it remains uncertain whether the Geriatric Trauma Unit's emphasis on a patient-centered approach truly manifests in these interactions. This study explores how patients with fall-related injuries admitted to a Geriatric Trauma Unit perceive and experience patient-centered care during hospitalization. METHODS This qualitative generic study was conducted in three teaching hospitals that integrated the principles of comanaged care in trauma care for older patients. Between January 2021 and May 2022, 21 patients were interviewed. RESULTS The findings highlight the formidable challenges that older patients encounter during their treatment for fall-related injuries, which often signify a loss of independence and personal autonomy. The findings revealed a gap in the consistent and continuous implementation of patient-centered care, with many healthcare professionals still viewing patients mainly through the lens of their injuries, rather than as individuals with distinct healthcare needs. Although focusing on fracture-specific care and physical rehabilitation aligns with some patient preferences, overlooking broader needs undermines the comprehensive approach to care in the Geriatric Trauma Unit. CONCLUSION Effective patient-centered care in Geriatric Trauma Units requires full adherence to its core elements: patient engagement, strong patient-provider relationships, and a patient-focused environment. This study shows that deviations from these principles can undermine care, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach that extends beyond treating immediate medical conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jeroen Dikken
- De Haagse Hogeschool, Faculteit Gezondheid, Voeding & Sport, Johanna Westerdijkplein 75, 2521 EN, The Hague, The Netherlands
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de Almeida WM, Quintas JL, Trindade IOA, Pitta LSR, Louzada LL, Nóbrega OT, Camargos EF. Diagnosis of Alzheimer's dementia and vehicle driving restriction: a scoping review. Psychogeriatrics 2024; 24:138-144. [PMID: 37990411 DOI: 10.1111/psyg.13049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
There are doubts about vehicle driving restriction for patients with Alzheimer's disease. A scoping review was carried out using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-ScR) methodology. Relevant databases were searched for articles published between 2000 and 2022 in English, Spanish, or Portuguese. Articles were included if they specifically addressed driving, risk of accidents, permission or licence to drive a motor vehicle in a context of important cognitive decline, or if addressed traffic legislation on driving and dementia. Twenty-three articles were selected for full reading, six of which were observational studies and only one with an interventionist method. All articles were carried out in high-income countries such as the UK, the US, and Australia. As a conclusion, there is no psychometric test in the literature sensitive enough to assess vehicle driving competence in older adults with cognitive deficits. Based on selected studies, there is no robust evidence to make recommendation for or against the cessation of vehicular driving for patients with mild cognitive decline or with mild dementia. In some situations, vehicle driving cessation can impact patients and their families. In addition, legal regulations regarding vehicle driving for older adults and people with dementia are scarce worldwide. Despite the scarcity of studies addressing the theme of vehicle driving in the context of dementia, there is some level of consensual reasoning that patients with moderate to severe dementia should halt driving activities, but the same does not apply for patients with mild levels of cognitive impairment, including mild dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Juliana Lima Quintas
- Hospital of the University of Brasilia (HUB), Medical Centre for the Aged, Brasília, Brazil
| | | | | | - Luciana Lilian Louzada
- Hospital of the University of Brasilia (HUB), Medical Centre for the Aged, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Otávio Toledo Nóbrega
- Hospital of the University of Brasilia (HUB), Medical Centre for the Aged, Brasília, Brazil
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Gériatrie de Montréal (CR-IUGM), Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Salis F, Pili D, Collu M, Serchisu L, Laconi R, Mandas A. Six-item cognitive impairment test (6-CIT)'s accuracy as a cognitive screening tool: best cut-off levels in emergency department setting. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1186502. [PMID: 37547596 PMCID: PMC10401263 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1186502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Nowadays, elderly patients represent a significant number of accesses to the Emergency Department (ED). Working rhythms do not allow to perform complete cognitive analysis, which would, however, be useful for the health care. This study aims to define the optimal cut-off values of the six-item Cognitive Impairment Test (6-CIT) as a cognitive screening tool in ED. Methods This study included 215 subjects, evaluated at the Emergency Department of the University Hospital of Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy, from July to December 2021. The accuracy of 6-CIT as a cognitive screening tool was assessed by comparison with Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE). Results The correlation coefficient between the two tests was -0.836 (CI: -0.87 to -0.79; p < 0.0001), and 6-CIT showed AUC = 0.947 (CI: 0.908-0.973; p < 0.0001). The 8/9 6-CIT cut-off score presented 86.76% sensitivity (CI: 76.4-93.8) and 91.84% specificity (CI: 86.2-95.7), and Youden index for this score was 0.786. Conclusion Our study demonstrates that 6-CIT is a reliable cognitive screening tool in ED, offering excellent sensitivity and specificity with a 8/9 points cut-off score.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Salis
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Daniela Pili
- University Hospital “Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria” of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Manuel Collu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Luca Serchisu
- University Hospital “Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria” of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Rosanna Laconi
- University Hospital “Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria” of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Antonella Mandas
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- University Hospital “Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria” of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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Lauridsen S, Schou-Juul F, Folker AP, Simonsen P, Phil ME, Skov SS. Developing the CARE intervention to enhance ethical self-efficacy in dementia care through the use of literary texts. BMC Med Ethics 2023; 24:45. [PMID: 37386381 PMCID: PMC10311821 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-023-00926-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dementia care is essential to promote the well-being of patients but remains a difficult task prone to ethical issues. These issues include questions like whether manipulating a person with dementia is ethically permissible if it promotes her best interest or how to engage with a person who is unwilling to recognize that she has dementia. To help people living with dementia and their carers manage ethical issues in dementia care, we developed the CARE intervention. This is an intervention focused on promoting the ethical self-efficacy of people living with dementia and carers, i.e., their confidence that they can manage ethical issues when they occur. The purpose of this paper is to explain and discuss how we have developed the CARE intervention to promote the ethical self-efficacy of people living with dementia, their family, and professional carers through a specific and, we believe, new use of literary texts. METHODS The CARE intervention has been developed in two phases: First, we conducted a needs assessment of the occurrence of ethical issues in dementia care and the need for an intervention to support people living with dementia and their carers in managing such issues. Second, in a design phase, we developed the CARE intervention to meet identified needs. RESULTS To address identified ethical issues in dementia care we designed the CARE intervention as a workshop format where people living with dementia and carers can meet, discuss literary texts, and deliberate on how to solve such issues. The workshop is structured by the following elements: An agenda of ethical issues, a collection of literary cases exemplifying ethical issues, a moderator with an understanding of dementia care, and an overview of the ethical principles relevant to the discussion of ethical issues. >This workshop concept is operationalized in three applications tailored to meet the specific ethical issues of each of the study´s three target groups: people living with dementia and family carers, professional and family carers, and professional carers. CONCLUSION We conclude the paper by stating that it is possible to develop an intervention that promotes the ethical self-efficacy of people living with dementia and family and professional carers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sigurd Lauridsen
- The National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Frederik Schou-Juul
- The National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anna Paldam Folker
- The National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter Simonsen
- Department Department of Language, Culture, History and Communication, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Marie-Elisabeth Phil
- Department Department of Language, Culture, History and Communication, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Sofie Smedegaard Skov
- The National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Kamoga R, Mubangizi V, Owokuhaisa J, Muwanguzi M, Natakunda S, Rukundo GZ. Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia: Prevalence, Symptom Severity, and Caregiver Distress in South-Western Uganda-A Quantitative Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2336. [PMID: 36767708 PMCID: PMC9916294 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of the study was to investigate behavioral and psychological symptoms (BPSD) prevalence, severity, and distress experienced by caregivers of people living with dementia (PLWD). A cross-sectional, population-based study was conducted in a rural area in southwestern Uganda. A Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire (NPI-Q) was used to determine the presence of BPSD as perceived by caregivers of PLWD. We carried out both descriptive and inferential data analysis. A total of 175 caregivers of PLWD were enrolled in this study. Among PLWD, 99% had presented BPSD in the past month. Hallucinations (75%) and dysphoria/depression (81%) were the two BPSD that occurred most frequently. Most participants (70%) stated that PLWD experienced hallucinations of significant severity. Aberrant motor activity was reported by 60% of the participants as the type of BPSD that caused severe distress. There was a high positive correlation (0.82) between the total severity score and total distress scores. Interventions aimed at addressing dysphoria and hallucinations may be essential for the reduction of caregiver distress. These findings point to the need for promoting early screening for BPSDs and the provision of support to caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald Kamoga
- Department of Anatomy, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara P.O. Box 1410, Uganda
| | - Vincent Mubangizi
- Department of Community Practice and Family Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara P.O. Box 1410, Uganda
| | - Judith Owokuhaisa
- Department of Physiotherapy, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara P.O. Box 1410, Uganda
| | - Moses Muwanguzi
- Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara P.O. Box 1410, Uganda
| | - Sylivia Natakunda
- Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara P.O. Box 1410, Uganda
| | - Godfrey Zari Rukundo
- Department of Psychiatry, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara P.O. Box 1410, Uganda
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Mozersky J, Solomon ED, Baldwin K, Wroblewski M, Parsons M, Goodman M, DuBois JM. Barriers to Using Legally Authorized Representatives in Clinical Research with Older Adults. J Alzheimers Dis Rep 2023; 7:135-149. [PMID: 36891257 PMCID: PMC9986706 DOI: 10.3233/adr-220103] [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: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Older adults are at increased risk of cognitive impairments including Alzheimer's disease dementia. Legally authorized representatives (LARs) can provide informed consent when a participant is no longer able to, but little is known about barriers to incorporating them in research. Objective Explore reasons for not asking and documenting participant decisions to appoint LARs among researchers conducting clinical intervention trials studying older adults or individuals with cognitive impairments. Methods Mixed method design consisting of a survey (N = 1,284) and qualitative interviews (N = 40) regarding barriers to incorporating LARs. Participants were principal investigators and clinical research coordinators. Results 37% (N = 469) had not asked and documented participant decisions about appointing LARs in the prior year. They had significantly lower confidence in resources available to incorporate LARs and lower positive attitudes compared to their counterparts who had done so. The majority (83%) had no trials studying individuals with cognitive impairments and reported LARs were not applicable. A minority (17%) had at least one trial studying individuals with cognitive impairments and reported being unaware of LARs. Qualitative findings indicate discomfort broaching a sensitive topic especially with individuals who are not yet impaired. Conclusion Resources and education to increase awareness and knowledge of LARs are needed. Researchers studying older adults should, at minimum, have the knowledge and resources to incorporate LARs when necessary. Stigma and discomfort discussing LARs will need to be overcome, as early proactive discussions before a participant loses decisional capacity could enhance participant autonomy and facilitate recruitment and retention of older adults to research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Mozersky
- Bioethics Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Erin D Solomon
- Bioethics Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Kari Baldwin
- Bioethics Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Matthew Wroblewski
- Bioethics Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Meredith Parsons
- Bioethics Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Melody Goodman
- School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - James M DuBois
- Bioethics Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Puterman-Salzman L, Katz J, Bergman H, Grad R, Khanassov V, Gore G, Vedel I, Wilchesky M, Armanfard N, Ghourchian N, Abbasgholizadeh Rahimi S. Artificial Intelligence for Detection of Dementia Using Motion Data: A Scoping Review. Dement Geriatr Cogn Dis Extra 2023; 13:28-38. [PMID: 37927529 PMCID: PMC10624450 DOI: 10.1159/000533693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Dementia is a neurodegenerative disease resulting in the loss of cognitive and psychological functions. Artificial intelligence (AI) may help in detection and screening of dementia; however, little is known in this area. Objectives The objective of this study was to identify and evaluate AI interventions for detection of dementia using motion data. Method The review followed the framework proposed by O'Malley's and Joanna Briggs Institute methodological guidance for scoping reviews. We adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) checklist for reporting the results. An information specialist performed a comprehensive search from the date of inception until November 2020, in five bibliographic databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science Core Collection, CINAHL, and IEEE Xplore. We included studies aimed at the deployment and testing or implementation of AI interventions using motion data for the detection of dementia among a diverse population, encompassing varying age, sex, gender, economic backgrounds, and ethnicity, extending to their health care providers across multiple health care settings. Studies were excluded if they focused on Parkinson's or Huntington's disease. Two independent reviewers screened the abstracts, titles, and then read the full-texts. Disagreements were resolved by consensus, and if this was not possible, the opinion of a third reviewer was sought. The reference lists of included studies were also screened. Results After removing duplicates, 2,632 articles were obtained. After title and abstract screening and full-text screening, 839 articles were considered for categorization. The authors categorized the papers into six categories, and data extraction and synthesis was performed on 20 included papers from the motion tracking data category. The included studies assessed cognitive performance (n = 5, 25%); screened dementia and cognitive decline (n = 8, 40%); investigated visual behaviours (n = 4, 20%); and analyzed motor behaviors (n = 3, 15%). Conclusions We presented evidence of AI systems being employed in the detection of dementia, showcasing the promising potential of motion tracking within this domain. Although some progress has been made in this field recently, there remain notable research gaps that require further exploration and investigation. Future endeavors need to compare AI interventions using motion data with traditional screening methods or other tech-enabled dementia detection mechanisms. Besides, future works should aim at understanding how gender and sex, and ethnic and cultural sensitivity can contribute to refining AI interventions, ensuring they are accessible, equitable, and beneficial across all society.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jory Katz
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Howard Bergman
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Roland Grad
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Jewish General Hospital, Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Genevieve Gore
- Schulich Library of Physical Sciences, Life Sciences and Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Isabelle Vedel
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Jewish General Hospital, Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Machelle Wilchesky
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Jewish General Hospital, Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Donald Berman Maimonides Centre for Research in Aging, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Narges Armanfard
- Mila - Quebec AI Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Samira Abbasgholizadeh Rahimi
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Jewish General Hospital, Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Mila - Quebec AI Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Dentistry Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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van der Schaar J, Visser LNC, Bouwman FH, Ket JCF, Scheltens P, Bredenoord AL, van der Flier WM. Considerations regarding a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease before dementia: a systematic review. Alzheimers Res Ther 2022; 14:31. [PMID: 35144684 PMCID: PMC8829985 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-022-00971-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The NIA-AA research framework proposes a purely biological definition of Alzheimer's disease (AD). This implies that AD can be diagnosed based on biomarker abnormalities, irrespective of clinical manifestation. While this brings opportunities, it also raises challenges. We aimed to provide an overview of considerations regarding the disclosure of AD pathology before the onset of dementia. METHODS A systematic literature review was conducted and reported according to PRISMA guidelines. We searched PubMed, Embase, APA PsycINFO, and Web of Science Core Collection (on 10 December 2020) for references on conveying AD biomarker results to individuals without dementia. Our query combined variations on the terms Alzheimer's disease, disclosure, or diagnosis, preclinical or prodromal, and biomarkers. Two reviewers independently screened the resulting 6860 titles and abstracts for eligibility and examined 162 full-text records for relevance. We included theoretical articles in English, on communicating amyloid and/or tau results to individuals with mild cognitive impairment, subjective cognitive decline, or normal cognition. MAXQDA-software was used for inductive data analysis. RESULTS We included 27 publications. From these, we extracted 26 unique considerations, which we grouped according to their primary relevance to a clinical, personal, or societal context. Clinical considerations included (lack of) validity, utility, and disclosure protocols. Personal considerations covered psychological and behavioral implications, as well as the right to (not) know. Finally, societal considerations comprised the risk of misconception, stigmatization, and discrimination. Overall, views were heterogeneous and often contradictory, with emphasis on harmful effects. CONCLUSIONS We found 26 diverse and opposing considerations, related to a clinical, personal, or societal context, which are relevant to diagnosing AD before dementia. The theoretical literature tended to focus on adverse impact and rely on common morality, while the motivation for and implications of biomarker testing are deeply personal. Our findings provide a starting point for clinicians to discuss biomarker-based diagnosis with their patients, which will become even more relevant in light of the conditional approval of a first disease-modifying drug for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jetske van der Schaar
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Department of Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081, HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Leonie N C Visser
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Department of Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081, HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Division of Clinical Geriatrics, Center for Alzheimer Research, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Femke H Bouwman
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Department of Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081, HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Philip Scheltens
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Department of Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081, HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annelien L Bredenoord
- Erasmus School of Philosophy, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wiesje M van der Flier
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Department of Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081, HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Epidemiology & Data Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Mozersky J, Roberts JS, Rumbaugh M, Chhatwal J, Wijsman E, Galasko D, Blacker D. Spillover: The Approval of New Medications for Alzheimer's Disease Dementia Will Impact Biomarker Disclosure Among Asymptomatic Research Participants. J Alzheimers Dis 2022; 90:1035-1043. [PMID: 35404285 PMCID: PMC9794032 DOI: 10.3233/jad-220113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
In this article we address how the recent, and anticipated upcoming, FDA approvals of novel anti-amyloid medications to treat individuals with mild Alzheimer's disease (AD) dementia could impact disclosure of biomarker results among asymptomatic research participants. Currently, research is typically the context where an asymptomatic individual may have the option to learn their amyloid biomarker status. Asymptomatic research participants who learn their amyloid status may have questions regarding the meaning of this result and the implications for accessing a potential intervention. After outlining our rationale, we provide examples of how current educational materials used in research convey messages regarding amyloid positivity and the availability of treatments, or lack thereof. We suggest language to improve messaging, as well as strengths of current materials, in addressing these issues for research participants. Although novel medications are currently only approved for use among symptomatic individuals, their availability may have implications for disclosure among asymptomatic research participants with evidence of amyloid deposition, who may be especially interested in information on these interventions for potential prevention, or future treatment, of mild cognitive impairment or dementia due to AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Mozersky
- Bioethics Research Center, Division of General Medical Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - J. Scott Roberts
- Department of Health Behavior & Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Malia Rumbaugh
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Jasmeer Chhatwal
- Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospitals, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ellen Wijsman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Genetics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Douglas Galasko
- Department of Neurosciences and ADRC, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Deborah Blacker
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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10
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Mozersky J, Hartz S, Linnenbringer E, Levin L, Streitz M, Stock K, Moulder K, Morris JC. Communicating 5-Year Risk of Alzheimer's Disease Dementia: Development and Evaluation of Materials that Incorporate Multiple Genetic and Biomarker Research Results. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 79:559-572. [PMID: 33337371 DOI: 10.3233/jad-200993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitively normal (CN) older adults participating in Alzheimer's disease (AD) research increasingly ask for their research results-including genetic and neuroimaging findings-to understand their risk of developing AD dementia. AD research results are typically not returned for multiple reasons, including possible psychosocial harms of knowing one is at risk of a highly feared and untreatable disease. OBJECTIVE We developed materials that convey information about 5-year absolute risk of developing AD dementia based on research results. METHODS 20 CN older adults who received a research brain MRI result were interviewed regarding their wishes for research results to inform material development (Pilot 1). Following material development, 17 CN older adults evaluated the materials for clarity and acceptability (Pilot 2). All participants were community-dwelling older adults participating in longitudinal studies of aging at a single site. RESULTS Participants want information on their risk of developing AD dementia to better understand their own health, satisfy curiosity, inform family, and future planning. Some articulated concerns, but the majority wanted to know their risk despite the limitations of information. Participants found the educational materials and results report clear and acceptable, and the majority would want to know their research results after reviewing them. CONCLUSION These materials will be used in a clinical study examining the psychosocial and cognitive effects of offering research results to a cohort of CN older adults. Future AD research may incorporate the return of complex risk information to CN older adults, and materials are needed to communicate this information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Mozersky
- Bioethics Research Center, Division of General Medical Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Sarah Hartz
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Erin Linnenbringer
- Department of Surgery, Division of Public Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Lillie Levin
- Bioethics Research Center, Division of General Medical Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Marissa Streitz
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO; and Knight Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Kristin Stock
- Washington University Danforth College of Arts and Sciences (post-baccalaureate program) and Music Speaks, LLC
| | - Krista Moulder
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO; and Knight Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - John C Morris
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO; and Knight Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Cabrera LY, Kelly P, Vega IE. Knowledge and Attitudes of two Latino Groups about Alzheimer Disease: a Qualitative Study. J Cross Cult Gerontol 2021; 36:265-284. [PMID: 34196838 PMCID: PMC8421275 DOI: 10.1007/s10823-021-09432-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Clustering Latinos under a single group in Alzheimer Disease (AD) research, neglects, among other things cultural and environmental differences. To address this, we examine knowledge and attitudes about AD among two Latino groups. We held 5 focus groups and 2 interviews all in Spanish with Mexicans and Puerto Ricans between 40 and 60 years old living in the Grand Rapids area in Michigan. Using content analysis of the discussions, we identified themes related to knowledge, attitudes and concerns about AD and caregiving. A total of 20 Mexicans and 9 Puerto Ricans participated. Improving knowledge and awareness, barriers and home-based family care were important themes in both Latino groups. Puerto Rican groups raised more concerns about the disease, whereas lack of knowledge was a key theme among Mexican participants. The exploratory study is a first step in promoting research that is attentive to the commonalities and differences of Latino groups and in continuing efforts to enhance health literacy among these groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Y Cabrera
- Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics, Center for Neural Engineering, College of Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, W-316 Millennium Science Complex, University Park, PA, 16802, USA.
- Rock Ethics Institute and Huck Institute of Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA.
| | - P Kelly
- College of Natural Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - I E Vega
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
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12
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Hsieh SW, Huang LC, Hsieh TJ, Lin CF, Hsu CC, Yang YH. Behavioral and psychological symptoms in institutional residents with dementia in Taiwan. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21:718-724. [PMID: 34184383 DOI: 10.1111/ggi.14220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) are important predictors for institutional placement, caregiver distress and depression for patients with dementia. We aim to investigate BPSD in institutional residents with dementia in Taiwan. METHODS We conducted a nationwide study surveying institutional residents in Taiwan. Institutional residents from 22 counties and cities in Taiwan were recruited and analyzed in our study. We recorded demographic data, severity of dementia and disability, presence of BPSD, and past medical history of institutional residents in Taiwan. We recorded the characteristics of BPSD and analyzed the possible risks of BPSD in residents with dementia. RESULTS A total of 4722 institutional residents were recruited and analyzed in our study. The prevalence of dementia was 87.2% (4119 residents). Among residents with dementia, 1546 (37.5%) had presented BPSD in the past 3 months. The most frequent three types of BPSD were nighttime behavior (17.9%), resistance against care (13.4%) and depression (12.9%). Old age, female gender, and lower MMSE (Mini-Mental State Examination) scores were associated with BPSD. Moderate dementia (OR = 1.73, 95% CI = 1.30-2.31) and mild activities of daily living (ADL) dependence (OR = 2.13, 95% CI = 1.06-4.27) increased the risks of BPSD. Reviews of past medical history showed that orthopedic disease, eye disease, genitourinary disease, dementia, psychiatric disorder and intellectual disability were associated with increasing risks of BPSD. CONCLUSIONS We concluded that moderate dementia and mild ADL dependence increased the risks of BPSD in institutional residents with dementia. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21: 718-724.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Wung Hsieh
- Department of Neurology, Kaohsiung Municipal SiaoGang Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Neurology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Neuroscience Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ling-Chun Huang
- Department of Neurology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Neuroscience Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Neurology, Kaohsiung Municipal Ta-Tung Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | | | - Chung-Fen Lin
- Institute of Population Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Cheng Hsu
- Institute of Population Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan.,Department of Family Medicine, Min-Sheng General Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Department of Health Services Administration, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yuan-Han Yang
- Department of Neurology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Neuroscience Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Neurology, Kaohsiung Municipal Ta-Tung Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of and Master's Program in Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Chinese Mentality Protection Association, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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13
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Angehrn Z, Sostar J, Nordon C, Turner A, Gove D, Karcher H, Keenan A, Mittelstadt B, de Reydet-de Vulpillieres F. Ethical and Social Implications of Using Predictive Modeling for Alzheimer's Disease Prevention: A Systematic Literature Review. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 76:923-940. [PMID: 32597799 DOI: 10.3233/jad-191159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The therapeutic paradigm in Alzheimer's disease (AD) is shifting from symptoms management toward prevention goals. Secondary prevention requires the identification of individuals without clinical symptoms, yet "at-risk" of developing AD dementia in the future, and thus, the use of predictive modeling. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to review the ethical concerns and social implications generated by this new approach. METHODS We conducted a systematic literature review in Medline, Embase, PsycInfo, and Scopus, and complemented it with a gray literature search between March and July 2018. Then we analyzed data qualitatively using a thematic analysis technique. RESULTS We identified thirty-one ethical issues and social concerns corresponding to eight ethical principles: (i) respect for autonomy, (ii) beneficence, (iii) non-maleficence, (iv) equality, justice, and diversity, (v) identity and stigma, (vi) privacy, (vii) accountability, transparency, and professionalism, and (viii) uncertainty avoidance. Much of the literature sees the discovery of disease-modifying treatment as a necessary and sufficient condition to justify AD risk assessment, overlooking future challenges in providing equitable access to it, establishing long-term treatment outcomes and social consequences of this approach, e.g., medicalization. The ethical/social issues associated specifically with predictive models, such as the adequate predictive power and reliability, infrastructural requirements, data privacy, potential for personalized medicine in AD, and limiting access to future AD treatment based on risk stratification, were covered scarcely. CONCLUSION The ethical discussion needs to advance to reflect recent scientific developments and guide clinical practice now and in the future, so that necessary safeguards are implemented for large-scale AD secondary prevention.
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Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) research, treatment, and prevention focus increasingly on developing personalized interventions based on personal genetic, biological, phenotypic data, for early intervention (EI) to limit harm. This approach has much to recommend it, but important ethical and philosophical challenges follow that should be considered, which we analyze here. We argue that advancing understanding of the causes of AD undermines the clarity of the distinction between primary and secondary prevention. This makes it increasingly unclear how primary and secondary categories can be appealed to as the basis for making judgements about what interventions are permissible, and for distinguishing between acceptably vs unacceptably early points in life to intervene. Timely efforts at prevention are vital for limiting harm from AD and given the logic of EI is that, in presence of risk, earlier is better, one might assume that earliest is best. This may or may not be the case; however, the permissibility of intervening in different ways at different stages of life is complex and turns on numerous contextual factors. We consider the particular ethical implications of intervening at different points in the life course, presenting a valuable resource for negotiating clinical and policy implications of EI in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex McKeown
- University of Oxford and Wellcome Centre for Ethics and Humanities
| | - Gin S Malhi
- University of Sydney Faculty of Medicine and Health
| | - Ilina Singh
- University of Oxford and Wellcome Centre for Ethics and Humanities
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15
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Götzelmann TG, Strech D, Kahrass H. The full spectrum of ethical issues in dementia research: findings of a systematic qualitative review. BMC Med Ethics 2021; 22:32. [PMID: 33771131 PMCID: PMC8004446 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-020-00572-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND When including participants with dementia in research, various ethical issues arise. At present, there are only a few existing dementia-specific research guidelines (Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use in Clinical investigation of medicines for the treatment Alzheimer's disease (Internet). https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/clinical-investigation-medicines-treatment-alzheimers-disease ; Food and Drug Administration, Early Alzheimer's Disease: Developing Drugs for Treatment Guidance for Industry [Internet]. http://www.fda.gov/regulatory-information/search-fda-guidance-documents/alzheimers-disease-developing-drugs-treatment-guidance-industy ), necessitating a more systematic and comprehensive approach to this topic to help researchers and stakeholders address dementia-specific ethical issues in research. A systematic literature review provides information on the ethical issues in dementia-related research and might therefore serve as a basis to improve the ethical conduct of this research. This systematic review aims to provide a broad and unbiased overview of ethical issues in dementia research by reviewing, analysing, and coding the latest literature on the topic. METHODS We conducted a systematic review in PubMed and Google Scholar (publications in English between 2007 and 2020, no restrictions on the type of publication) of literature on research ethics in dementia research. Ethical issues in research were identified by qualitative text analysis and normative analysis. RESULTS The literature review retrieved 110 references that together mentioned 105 ethical issues in dementia research. This set of ethical issues was structured into a matrix based on the eight major principles from a pre-existing framework on biomedical ethics (Emanuel et al. An Ethical Framework for Biomedical Research. in The Oxford textbook of clinical research ethics, Oxford University Press, Oxford, 2008). Consequently, subcategories were created and further categorized into dementia stages and study phases. CONCLUSIONS The systematically derived matrix helps raise awareness and understanding of the complex topic of ethical issues in dementia research. The matrix can be used as a basis for researchers, policy makers and other stakeholders when planning, conducting and monitoring research, making decisions on the legal background of the topic, and creating research practice guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim G Götzelmann
- Institute for History, Ethics and Philosophy in Medicine, OE 5450, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany.
| | - Daniel Strech
- QUEST Center, Berlin Institute of Health, Anna-Louisa-Karsch-Straße 2, 10178, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hannes Kahrass
- Institute for History, Ethics and Philosophy in Medicine, OE 5450, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
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16
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Rostamzadeh A, Schwegler C, Gil-Navarro S, Rosende-Roca M, Romotzky V, Ortega G, Canabate P, Moreno M, Schmitz-Luhn B, Boada M, Jessen F, Woopen C. Biomarker-Based Risk Prediction of Alzheimer’s Disease Dementia in Mild Cognitive Impairment: Psychosocial, Ethical, and Legal Aspects. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 80:601-617. [DOI: 10.3233/jad-200484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Background: Today, a growing number of individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) wish to assess their risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease (AD) dementia. The expectations as well as the effects on quality of life (QoL) in MCI patients and their close others through biomarker-based dementia risk estimation are not well studied. Objective: The PreDADQoL project aims at providing empirical data on effects of such prediction on QoL and at developing an ethical and legal framework of biomarker-based dementia risk estimation in MCI. Methods: In the empirical study, 100 MCI-patients and their close others will be recruited from two sites (Germany and Spain). They receive standardized counselling on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarker-based prediction of AD dementia and a risk disclosure based on their AD biomarker status. A mixed methods approach will be applied to assess outcomes. Results: The pilot-study yielded a specification of the research topics and newly developed questionnaires for the main assessment. Within this binational quantitative and qualitative study, data on attitudes and expectations toward AD risk prediction, QoL, risk communication, coping strategies, mental health, lifestyle changes, and healthcare resource utilization will be obtained. Together with the normative part of the project, an empirically informed ethical and legal framework for biomarker-based dementia risk estimation will be developed. Conclusion: The empirical research of the PreDADQoL study together with the ethical and legal considerations and implications will help to improve the process of counselling and risk disclosure and thereby positively affect QoL and health of MCI-patients and their close others in the context of biomarker-based dementia risk estimation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayda Rostamzadeh
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Carolin Schwegler
- Cologne Center for Ethics, Rights, Economics, and Social Sciences of Health (ceres), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Silvia Gil-Navarro
- Research Center and Memory Clinic, Fundació ACE, Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maitée Rosende-Roca
- Research Center and Memory Clinic, Fundació ACE, Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Vanessa Romotzky
- Cologne Center for Ethics, Rights, Economics, and Social Sciences of Health (ceres), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Gemma Ortega
- Research Center and Memory Clinic, Fundació ACE, Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pilar Canabate
- Research Center and Memory Clinic, Fundació ACE, Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mariola Moreno
- Research Center and Memory Clinic, Fundació ACE, Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Björn Schmitz-Luhn
- Cologne Center for Ethics, Rights, Economics, and Social Sciences of Health (ceres), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Mercè Boada
- Research Center and Memory Clinic, Fundació ACE, Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
- Networking Research Center on Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Frank Jessen
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Venusberg Campus 1, Bonn, Germany
- Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Christiane Woopen
- Cologne Center for Ethics, Rights, Economics, and Social Sciences of Health (ceres), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Institute for the History of Medicine and Medical Ethics, Research Unit Ethics, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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Abstract
Dementia poses important medical and societal challenges, and of all health risks people face in life, dementia is one of the most feared. Recent research indicates that up to about 40% of all cases of dementia might be preventable. A series of environmental, social, and medical risk-factors have been identified that should be targeted from midlife onwards when people are still cognitively healthy. At first glance, this seems not merely advisable, but even imperative. However, these new developments trigger a series of new ethical questions and concerns which have hardly been addressed to date. Pro-active ethical reflection, however, is crucial to ensure that the interests and well-being of those affected, ultimately all of us, are adequately respected. This is the goal of the current contribution. Against the background of a concrete case in primary dementia prevention, it provides a systematic overview of the current ethical literature and sketches an ethical research agenda. First, possible benefits of increased well-being must be balanced with the burdens of being engaged in particularly long-term interventions for which it is unclear whether they will ever pay out on a personal level. Second, while knowledge about one's options to maintain brain health might empower people, it might also undermine autonomy, put high social pressure on people, medicalize healthy adults, and stigmatize those who still develop dementia. Third, while synergistic effects might occur, the ideals of dementia prevention might also conflict with other health and non-health related values people hold in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorothee Horstkötter
- MHeNS School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Department of Health, Ethics and Society, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Kay Deckers
- Alzheimer Centre Limburg, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Sebastian Köhler
- Alzheimer Centre Limburg, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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18
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Watt AD, Jenkins NL, McColl G, Collins S, Desmond PM. Ethical Issues in the Treatment of Late-Stage Alzheimer's Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2020; 68:1311-1316. [PMID: 30475773 PMCID: PMC6484269 DOI: 10.3233/jad-180865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
There is hope that the continuing efforts of researchers will yield a disease-modifying drug for Alzheimer’s disease. Such a drug is likely to be capable of halting, or significantly slowing, the underlying pathological processes driving cognitive decline; however, it is unlikely to be capable of restoring brain function already lost through the pathological process. A therapy capable of halting Alzheimer’s disease, while not providing restoration of function, may prompt serious ethical questions. For example, is there a stage in the disease process when it becomes too late for therapeutic intervention to commence? And who bears the responsibility of making such a decision? Conversations regarding the ethics of treating neurodegenerative conditions with non-restorative drugs have been largely absent within both clinical and research communities. Such discussions are urgently required to ensure that patients’ rights and well-being are protected when such therapeutic options become available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew D Watt
- The Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Nicole L Jenkins
- Melbourne Dementia Research Centre, The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Gawain McColl
- Melbourne Dementia Research Centre, The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Steven Collins
- Department of Medicine (RMH), The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Patricia M Desmond
- Department of Medicine and Radiology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Miyanaga R, Poudyal H. Participation of nurses and care workers in the decision-making process for people with dementia in Japan: Discussion paper. Int J Nurs Stud 2019; 96:91-98. [PMID: 30929744 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2019.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Numerous socio-legal factors make the process of surrogate decision-making for people living in dementia very complicated in Japan. In this discussion paper, we argue that the lack of early consultation between patients, surrogate decision-makers and healthcare providers and the overreliance of patients and their families on doctors to assume the decision-making role lead to healthcare practices that may not align with the patient's wishes. Further, we argue that lack of laws on surrogate decision-making, changing family structure and the liabilities associated with the care of people living with dementia contribute to the complexity of the decision-making process in Japan. Finally, given the rapidly changing social and healthcare norms in Japan, we call for greater involvement of nurses and care workers in the decision-making process to ensure patient-centric treatment and care are adopted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rio Miyanaga
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hemant Poudyal
- Medical Education Center, Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Nutrition & Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.
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20
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Haugland V, Reime M. Scenario-based simulation training as a method to increase nursing students' competence in demanding situations in dementia care. A mixed method study. Nurse Educ Pract 2018; 33:164-171. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nepr.2018.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2017] [Revised: 05/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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21
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Sade RM. Introduction: Perspectives on Alzheimer's Disease: Ethical, Legal, and Social Issues. THE JOURNAL OF LAW, MEDICINE & ETHICS : A JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF LAW, MEDICINE & ETHICS 2018; 46:691-693. [PMID: 30336097 DOI: 10.1177/1073110518804229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Robert M Sade
- Robert M. Sade, M.D., is Distinguished University Professor, Professor of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Director of the Institute of Human Values in Health Care, and Director of the South Carolina Clinical and Translational Research Institute (Clinical and Translational Science Award) Clinical Research Ethics Core at the Medical University of South Carolina. He currently chairs the Cardiothoracic Ethics Forum and serves as Associate Editor (Ethics) of the Annals of Thoracic Surgery. He is a former chair of the American Association for Thoracic Surgery Ethics Committee, the Society of Thoracic Surgeon's Standards and Ethics Committee, and the American Medical Association's Council on Ethical and Judicial Affairs
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22
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Carotenuto A, Rea R, Traini E, Ricci G, Fasanaro AM, Amenta F. Cognitive Assessment of Patients With Alzheimer's Disease by Telemedicine: Pilot Study. JMIR Ment Health 2018; 5:e31. [PMID: 29752254 PMCID: PMC5970283 DOI: 10.2196/mental.8097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2017] [Revised: 09/29/2017] [Accepted: 02/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Approximately 46.8 million people are living with dementia worldwide and their number will grow in the next years. Any potential treatment should be administered as early as possible because it is important to provide an early cognitive assessment and to regularly monitor the mental function of patients. Information and communication technologies can be helpful to reach and follow patients without displacing them, but there may be doubts about the reliability of cognitive tests performed by telemedicine. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to evaluate the reliability of the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale cognitive subscale (ADAS-cog) tests administered in hospital by videoconference to patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. METHODS The tests were administered to 28 Alzheimer's disease outpatients (8 male, mean age 73.88, SD 7.45 years; 20 female mean age 76.00, SD 5.40 years) recruited and followed in the Alzheimer's Unit of the A Cardarelli National Hospital (Naples, Italy) at baseline and after 6, 12, 18, and 24 months of observation. Patients were evaluated first face-to-face by a psychologist and then, after 2 weeks, by another psychologist via videoconference in hospital. RESULTS This study showed no differences in the MMSE and ADAS-cog scores when the tests were administered face-to-face or by videoconference, except in patients with more pronounced cognitive deficits (MMSE<17), in which the assessment via videoconference overestimated the cognitive impairment (face to face, MMSE mean 13.9, SD 4.9 and ADAS-cog mean 9.0, SD 3.8; videoconference, MMSE mean 42.8, SD 12.5 and ADAS-cog mean 56.9, SD 5.5). CONCLUSIONS We found that videoconferencing is a reliable approach to document cognitive stability or decline, and to measure treatment effects in patients with mild to moderate dementia. A more extended study is needed to confirm these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Carotenuto
- Clinical Research, Telemedicine and Telepharmacy Centre, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Raffaele Rea
- Clinical Research, Telemedicine and Telepharmacy Centre, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Enea Traini
- Clinical Research, Telemedicine and Telepharmacy Centre, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Giovanna Ricci
- Bioethics and Legal Medicine Centre, School of Law, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Amenta
- Clinical Research, Telemedicine and Telepharmacy Centre, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
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23
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Carotenuto A, Rea R, Traini E, Fasanaro AM, Ricci G, Manzo V, Amenta F. The Effect of the Association between Donepezil and Choline Alphoscerate on Behavioral Disturbances in Alzheimer's Disease: Interim Results of the ASCOMALVA Trial. J Alzheimers Dis 2018; 56:805-815. [PMID: 28035924 DOI: 10.3233/jad-160675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) are a group of psychological reactions, psychiatric symptoms, and behaviors commonly found in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Four clusters of BPSD have been described: mood disorders (depression, anxiety, and apathy), psychotic symptoms (delusions and hallucinations), aberrant motor behaviors (pacing, wandering, and other purposeless behaviors), and inappropriate behaviors (agitation, disinhibition, and euphoria). Most of them are attributed to acetylcholine deficiency. OBJECTIVE To evaluate if a higher amount of acetylcholine obtained by associating donepezil and choline alphoscerate might have a favorable effect on BPSD. METHODS BPSD were measured at baseline and after 24 months in 113 mild/moderate AD patients, included in the double-blind randomized trial ASCOMALVA, by the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI). Two matched groups were compared: group A treated with donepezil (10 mg/day) plus choline alphoscerate (1200 mg/day), and group B treated with donepezil (10 mg/day) plus placebo. RESULTS Data of NPI revealed a significant decrease of BPSD severity and distress of the caregiver in patients of group A compared with group B. Mood disorders (depression, anxiety and apathy) were significantly decreased in subjects treated with donepezil and choline alphoscerate, while their severity and frequency was increased in the other group. CONCLUSIONS Patients treated with donepezil plus choline alphoscerate showed a lower level of behavioral disturbances than subjects treated with donepezil only, suggesting that the association can have beneficial effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Carotenuto
- Clinical Research, Telemedicine and Telepharmacy Center, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy.,Neurology Unit, National Hospital, "A. Cardarelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaele Rea
- Clinical Research, Telemedicine and Telepharmacy Center, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy.,Neurology Unit, National Hospital, "A. Cardarelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Enea Traini
- Clinical Research, Telemedicine and Telepharmacy Center, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | | | - Giovanna Ricci
- Bioethics and Legal Medicine Center, School of Law, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Valentino Manzo
- Neurology Unit, National Hospital, "A. Cardarelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Amenta
- Clinical Research, Telemedicine and Telepharmacy Center, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
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Hughes JC, Ingram TA, Jarvis A, Denton E, Lampshire Z, Wernham C. Consent for the diagnosis of preclinical dementia states: A review. Maturitas 2017; 98:30-34. [DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2017.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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Dröes RM, Chattat R, Diaz A, Gove D, Graff M, Murphy K, Verbeek H, Vernooij-Dassen M, Clare L, Johannessen A, Roes M, Verhey F, Charras K. Social health and dementia: a European consensus on the operationalization of the concept and directions for research and practice. Aging Ment Health 2017; 21:4-17. [PMID: 27869503 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2016.1254596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Because the pattern of illnesses changes in an aging population and many people manage to live well with chronic diseases, a group of health care professionals recently proposed reformulating the static WHO definition of health towards a dynamic one based on the ability to physically, mentally and socially adapt and self-manage. This paper is the result of a collaborative action of the INTERDEM Social Health Taskforce to operationalize this new health concept for people with dementia, more specifically the social domain, and to formulate directions for research and practice to promote social health in dementia. METHOD Based on the expertise of the Social Health Taskforce members (N = 54) three groups were formed that worked on operationalizing the three social health dimensions described by Huber et al.: (1) capacity to fulfil potential and obligations; (2) ability to manage life with some degree of independence; (3) participation in social activities. For each dimension also influencing factors, effective interventions and knowledge gaps were inventoried. After a consensus meeting, the operationalizations of the dimensions were reviewed by the European Working Group of People with Dementia (EWGPWD). RESULTS The social health dimensions could be well operationalized for people with dementia and are assessed as very relevant according to the Social Health Taskforce and EWGPWD. Personal (e.g. sense of coherence, competencies), disease-related (e.g. severity of cognitive impairments, comorbidity), social (support from network, stigma) and environmental factors (e.g. enabling design, accessibility) that can influence the person with dementia's social health and many interventions promoting social health were identified. CONCLUSION A consensus-based operationalization of social health in dementia is proposed, and factors that can influence, and interventions that improve, social health in dementia identified. Recommendations are made for research and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- R M Dröes
- a Department of Psychiatry, Alzheimer Centre , EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Centre , Amsterdam , The Netherlands
| | - R Chattat
- b Department of Psychology , University of Bologna , Bologna , Italy
| | - A Diaz
- c Alzheimer Europe , Luxembourg , Luxembourg
| | - D Gove
- c Alzheimer Europe , Luxembourg , Luxembourg
| | - M Graff
- d Radboud University Medical Centre, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Scientific Institute for Quality of Healthcare, Radboud Alzheimer Centre , Nijmegen , The Netherlands
| | - K Murphy
- e School of Nursing and Midwifery, Aras Loyola, National University of Irelands , Galway , Ireland
| | - H Verbeek
- f Research School CAPHRI, Department of Health Services Research , Maastricht University , Maastricht , The Netherlands
| | - M Vernooij-Dassen
- d Radboud University Medical Centre, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Scientific Institute for Quality of Healthcare, Radboud Alzheimer Centre , Nijmegen , The Netherlands
| | - L Clare
- g Centre for Research in Ageing and Cognitive Health (REACH) , School of Psychology, University of Exeter, and PenCLAHRC, University of Exeter Medical School , Exeter , United Kingdom
| | - A Johannessen
- h Norwegian National Advisory Unit on Ageing and Health , VID Specialized University , Oslo , Norway
| | - M Roes
- i German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Health , University of Witten/Herdecke , Witten , Germany
| | - F Verhey
- j Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology , Maastricht University , Maastricht , The Netherlands
| | - K Charras
- k Fondation Médéric Alzheimer , Psychosocial Interventions Department , Paris , France
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Prusaczyk B, Cherney SM, Carpenter CR, DuBois JM. Informed Consent to Research with Cognitively Impaired Adults: Transdisciplinary Challenges and Opportunities. Clin Gerontol 2017; 40:63-73. [PMID: 28452628 PMCID: PMC5911394 DOI: 10.1080/07317115.2016.1201714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Due to issues related to informed research consent, older adults with cognitive impairments are often excluded from high-quality studies that are not directly related to cognitive impairment, which has led to a dearth of evidence for this population. The challenges to including cognitively impaired older adults in research and the implications of their exclusion are a transdisciplinary issue. The ethical challenges and logistical barriers to conducting research with cognitively impaired older adults are addressed from the perspectives of three different fields-social work, emergency medicine, and orthopaedic surgery. Issues related to funding, study design, intervention components, and outcomes are discussed through the unique experiences of three different providers. A fourth perspective-medical research ethics-provides alternatives to exclusion when conducting research with cognitively impaired older adults such as timing, corrective feedback and plain language, and capacity assessment and proxy appointments. Given the increasing aging population and the lack of evidence on cognitively impaired older adults, it is critical that researchers, funders, and institutional review boards not be dissuaded from including this population in research studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth Prusaczyk
- a Washington University School of Medicine , St. Louis , Missouri , USA
| | - Steven M Cherney
- a Washington University School of Medicine , St. Louis , Missouri , USA
| | | | - James M DuBois
- a Washington University School of Medicine , St. Louis , Missouri , USA
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The practice and ethics of dementia care. Int Psychogeriatr 2015; 27:1579-81. [PMID: 26334514 DOI: 10.1017/s1041610215001234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The focus in dementia research on discovery of cause and cure often leaves the care part of the triad hidden from the spotlight. While clinicians, caregivers, and policy makers eagerly await these scientific developments, daily they face challenges in striving best for quality of life for people with dementia and their family caregivers. This issue of the Journal addresses six topics: three relate to service delivery – at assessment, in the community and at end of life; and one each focus on ethics, driving and suicidality.
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