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Anxiety disorder in dementia

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  13 June 2014

Clive G Ballard ,
Ramalingam NC Mohan ,
Abdul Patel  and
Candida Graham
Clive G Ballard
Affiliation:
University Department of Psychiatry
Ramalingam NC Mohan
Affiliation:
University Department of Psychiatry
Abdul Patel
Affiliation:
Queen Elizabeth Psychiatric Hospital, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2QZ, England
Candida Graham
Affiliation:
Walsgrave Hospital, Walsgrave, Coventry, CV2 2DX, England
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Abstract

Objective: To estimate the prevalence of anxiety disorders and to explore several potential aetiological factors. Method: Ninety two consecutive patients assessed at a day hospital for patients with probable dementia were interviewed using the CAMDEX schedule. Fifty eight patients gave a sufficiently reliable interview and had a first degree relative in close contact as an informant and were hence included in the study group. The prevalence of RDC generalised anxiety disorder in this group was determined. Type of dementia, severity of dementia and insight were explored as possible aetiological factors. Results: The prevalence of RDC generalised anxiety disorder was 31%. Fifty percent of these patients suffered from anxiety symptoms in the context of RDC major depression. Anxiety disorders were most common in those with mild dementia and in those who retained insight, both showing a trend towards a significant association with anxiety. Conclusions: Anxiety disorders are very common in dementia sufferers particularly in those with mild dementia. Further research is needed in this area, particularly with respect to treatment.

Keywords

AnxietyDementia
Type
Original Papers
Information
Irish Journal of Psychological Medicine , Volume 11 , Issue 3 , September 1994 , pp. 108 - 109
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1994

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