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The impact of the Symptoms of dementia on caregivers

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 January 2018

Catherine Donaldson ,
Nicholas Tarrier  and
Alistair Burns
Catherine Donaldson*
Affiliation:
The University of Manchester, School of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences, Withington Hospital, Manchester
Nicholas Tarrier
Affiliation:
The University of Manchester, School of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences, Withington Hospital, Manchester
Alistair Burns
Affiliation:
The University of Manchester, School of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences, Withington Hospital, Manchester
*
Ms C. Donaldson, The University of Manchester, School of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences, Withington Hospital, West Didsbury, Manchester M20 8LR
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Abstract

Background

The symptoms of dementia are the most obvious stressors to which caregivers are exposed and many studies have investigated the association of such symptoms with the adverse consequences of caring. The present paper represents the only dedicated review of this literature.

Method

Manual and computer (MEDLINE) literature searches were performed.

Results

Seventeen empirical studies were found.

Conclusions

Variability in conceptual and methodological approaches and inconsistencies in the reported findings have prevented firm conclusions from being drawn. However, the literature provided support for a relationship between non-cognitive features in dementia and psychological problems in caregivers, and suggested possible associations between cognitive deficits and some negative care-giver outcomes. New methodological and conceptual approaches are required if decisive evidence is to be forthcoming. This information is a prerequisite for investigations into the causal mechanisms that sustain these relationships, and for rationally designed interventions.

Type
Papers
Information
The British Journal of Psychiatry , Volume 170 , Issue 1 , January 1997 , pp. 62 - 68
Copyright
Copyright © 1997 The Royal College of Psychiatrists 

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