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The effect of a lollipop on vocally disruptive behavior in a patient with frontotemporal dementia: a case-study

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  15 May 2014

W. F. Fick*
Affiliation:
De Waalboog “Joachim en Anna”, Centre for Specialized Geriatric Care, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
J. P. van der Borgh
Affiliation:
De Waalboog “Joachim en Anna”, Centre for Specialized Geriatric Care, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
S. Jansen
Affiliation:
De Waalboog “Joachim en Anna”, Centre for Specialized Geriatric Care, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
R. T. C. M. Koopmans
Affiliation:
De Waalboog “Joachim en Anna”, Centre for Specialized Geriatric Care, Nijmegen, the Netherlands Department of Primary and Community Care, Centre for Family Medicine, Geriatric Care and Public Health, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
*
Correspondence should be addressed to: Dr. W. F. Fick, Eldery Care Physician, De Waalboog “Joachim en Anna”, Centre for Specialized Geriatric Care, Groesbeekseweg 327, 6523 PA Nijmegen, the Netherlands. Phone: +31 243228264; Fax: +31 24 3230076. Email: [email protected].

Abstract

A problematic and disturbing behavior which can develop in people with dementia, is vocally disruptive behavior (VDB). To date, the study of VDB is underdeveloped and with only a limited knowledge base. Medications commonly used in VDB have limited benefits and specific risks in patients with dementia. This report details the case of a patient with frontotemporal dementia with VDB, which responded very well by providing a lollipop. Subsequently, we pose theory-based hypotheses in order to try to explain the beneficial effect of this intervention. This may contribute to a better understanding of VDB and possible treatment strategies.

Type
Case Report
Copyright
Copyright © International Psychogeriatric Association 2014 

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