| Learning Objective #1: The learner will be able to learn the prevalence of agitation in institutionalized elderly in Taiwan. | |||
| Learning Objective #2: The learner will be able to obtain the influenced factors on agitation in institutionalized elderly. |
Background. Agitated behavior is one of the most common symptoms of dementia and might endanger the patients themselves, caregivers and institutions. However, the prevalence of problem behaviors and its associated factors at long-term care facilities in
Methods. Residents of dementia special care units in eight long-term care facilities were recruited. Subjects who were diagnosed with dementia were recruited in this study. Measurements included: demographic data, the Barthel index, Mini-Mental State Examination and the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory (CMAI).
Results. The number of subjects who were identified with problem behaviors was 163 (43.5%). Significant differences in sex, being restrained, restrained time, age, family visits, functional status, and mental status were found between the agitated and non-agitated groups. However, family visits, mental status, and the interaction between functional status and being retrained were three independent factors associated with agitated behaviors after controlling for all other factors.Conclusions. It is recommended to construct strategies to encourage the family periodically visiting older residents and develop restraint-free environments in long-term care facilities.