Article
Geriatrics & Gerontology
Janouk Kosters, Sarah I. M. Janus, Kirsten A. van den Bosch, Tjeerd C. Andringa, E. Oomen-de Hoop, Michiel R. de Boer, Ronald A. J. Elburg, Steven Warmelink, Sytse U. Zuidema, Hendrika J. Luijendijk
Summary: This study evaluated the impact of the Mobile Soundscape Appraisal and Recording Technology intervention on neuropsychiatric symptoms in nursing home residents with dementia. By raising awareness among staff about the auditory environment and its influence on residents, the intervention successfully reduced NPS levels.
JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN MEDICAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION
(2023)
Article
Geriatrics & Gerontology
Annelies E. Veldwijk-Rouwenhorst, Martin Smalbrugge, Sytse U. Zuidema, Suzan A. J. Hanssen, Raymond T. C. M. Koopmans, Debby L. Gerritsen
Summary: The study explored the trajectory leading to continuous palliative sedation in NH residents with dementia and refractory neuropsychiatric symptoms, revealing a complex and burdensome journey that ultimately brought relief and contentment to those involved. Continuous palliative sedation was identified as a valuable treatment option for these residents. External consultation and administering intermittent sedation as a preceding step were recommended in the decision-making process.
JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN MEDICAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION
(2021)
Editorial Material
Clinical Neurology
Richard M. Camicioli, Carlo Colosimo
Summary: This study examined the association between different NPS profiles and the risk of cognitive decline in PD-MCI patients, which is of great importance for the diagnosis and management of PD-MCI patients.
Article
Geriatrics & Gerontology
Melisa Gumus, Namita Multani, Michael L. Mack, Maria Carmela Tartaglia
Summary: The study found differences in the prevalence and severity of neuropsychiatric symptoms between young-onset and late-onset Alzheimer's disease, with higher rates of depression in young-onset patients. These differences also extended to the progression of the symptoms over time.
Article
Psychiatry
Manuela Tondelli, Chiara Galli, Giulia Vinceti, Luigi Fiondella, Simone Salemme, Chiara Carbone, Maria Angela Molinari, Annalisa Chiari, Giovanna Zamboni
Summary: Anosognosia levels were not significantly different between early-onset dementia (EOD) and late-onset dementia (LOD) patients, but increased with disease progression, especially in frontotemporal dementia cases. Early anosognosia was associated with higher frequency and severity of subsequent neuropsychiatric symptoms.
FRONTIERS IN PSYCHIATRY
(2021)
Article
Geriatrics & Gerontology
Joanne McDermid, Clive Ballard, Zunera Khan, Dag Aarsland, Chris Fox, Jane Fossey, Linda Clare, Esme Moniz-Cook, Maria Soto-Martin, Adrienne Sweetnam, Kathryn Mills, Jeffrey Cummings, Anne Corbett
Summary: This study aimed to determine the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on neuropsychiatric symptoms and antipsychotic use in people with dementia living in nursing homes. The overall prevalence of neuropsychiatric symptoms remained unchanged, but there was a significant increase in antipsychotic prescribing, with a disproportionate rise in one third of homes. Urgent strategies are needed to identify these nursing homes and reduce the excessive prescription rates.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GERIATRIC PSYCHIATRY
(2023)
Article
Geriatrics & Gerontology
Lihui Pu, Christian Bakker, Britt Appelhof, Sandra A. Zwijsen, Steven Teerenstra, Martin Smalbrugge, Frans R. J. Verhey, Marjolein E. de Vugt, Sytse U. Zuidema, Raymond T. C. M. Koopmans
Summary: The study found that while overall QoL in YOD patients in nursing homes remained relatively stable over 18 months, there were multidirectional changes in QoL subscales, with some scores increasing and some decreasing. Patients with higher levels of QoL and more advanced dementia were more likely to experience a decline in QoL over time.
JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN MEDICAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION
(2021)
Article
Geriatrics & Gerontology
Rebecca K. F. Lassell, Shih-Yin Lin, Kimberly Convery, Jason Fletcher, Tracy Chippendale, Tessa Jones, Aditi Durga, James E. Galvin, Randall W. Rupper, Abraham A. Brody
Summary: This study aimed to investigate the neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) among people living with dementia from diverse racial and ethnic groups. NPS were found to be more prevalent and severe in individuals with higher dementia severity, and there were some differences in symptom prevalence among different racial and ethnic sub-groups.
JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN GERIATRICS SOCIETY
(2023)
Article
Geriatrics & Gerontology
M. A. Kromhout, N. Rius Ottenheim, H. Putter, M. E. Numans, W. P. Achterberg
Summary: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between caffeine consumption and behavioral symptoms in 206 older individuals with both diabetes and dementia in Dutch nursing homes. Results showed that an increase in caffeine consumption was associated with a decrease in affect and agitation symptoms, but differences were observed in disinhibition and depression. Additionally, dementia severity influenced agitation, anxiety, and affect and psychomotor symptoms.
JOURNAL OF NUTRITION HEALTH & AGING
(2021)
Editorial Material
Clinical Neurology
Byron Creese, Katie Lannon
Summary: New research based on genome-wide association studies in Alzheimer's disease has identified molecular mechanisms that are also seen in some psychiatric disorders. The study used omics data and has the potential to reveal unknown disease mechanisms. However, insufficient information about neuropsychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer's disease patients limits the conclusions.
NATURE REVIEWS NEUROLOGY
(2022)
Article
Geriatrics & Gerontology
Tom Borza, Geir Selbaek, Bjorn Lichtwarck, Jurate Saltyte Benth, Sverre Bergh
Summary: The study found that depressive symptoms in newly admitted nursing home residents displayed a nonlinear trend, with most residents exhibiting persistent mild or moderate symptoms. Factors such as more severe dementia, lower levels of functioning, poor physical health, severe pain, antidepressant use, and younger age at admission were associated with higher CSDD scores.
JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN MEDICAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Manuela Tondelli, Annalisa Chiari, Giulia Vinceti, Chiara Galli, Simone Salemme, Tommaso Filippini, Chiara Carbone, Claudia Minafra, Claudia De Luca, Riccardo Prandi, Simona Tondelli, Giovanna Zamboni
Summary: This study explores the relationship between greenness and neuropsychiatric symptoms in individuals with dementia. The findings suggest that green environments may have an impact on the mental well-being of people with dementia.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2024)
Article
Psychology, Clinical
Liam F. F. Borelli-Millott, Samantha M. M. Loi, Dennis Velakoulis, Anita M. Y. Goh
Summary: This study explores the themes of psychotic symptoms in individuals diagnosed with young-onset dementia (YOD). It identifies themes in the domains of delusions, auditory hallucinations, and visual hallucinations, with recurring themes related to paranoia, suspicion, harm, and abuse. The study finds no clear relationship between the themes of psychotic symptoms and diagnostic category or time from diagnosis.
INTERNATIONAL PSYCHOGERIATRICS
(2023)
Article
Geriatrics & Gerontology
Antoinette B. Coe, Ana Montoya, Chiang-Hua Chang, Pil S. Park, Julie P. W. Bynum, Theresa I. Shireman, Tingting Zhang, Ellen M. McCreedy, Lauren B. Gerlach
Summary: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted nursing home care and led to increased depression symptoms and CNS-active medication use among long-stay NH residents with dementia. Regular assessment of depression symptoms and appropriate medication use are necessary during periods of increased isolation.
JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN GERIATRICS SOCIETY
(2023)
Article
Neurosciences
Andrzej Sokolowski, Ashlin R. K. Roy, Sheng-Yang M. Goh, Emily G. Hardy, Samir Datta, Yann Cobigo, Jesse A. Brown, Salvatore Spina, Lea Grinberg, Joel Kramer, Katherine P. Rankin, William W. Seeley, Virginia E. Sturm, Howard J. Rosen, Bruce L. Miller, David C. Perry
Summary: Behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia is characterized by heterogeneous atrophy patterns in the frontal, insular, and anterior temporal lobes. This study aimed to assess the frequency of hemispheric and dorso-ventral asymmetry and examine their clinical correlates.
HUMAN BRAIN MAPPING
(2023)
Article
Psychology, Clinical
Raymond T. C. M. Koopmans, Hilde Verbeek, Annemiek Bielderman, Meriam M. Janssen, Anke Persoon, Ivonne Lesman-Leegte, Eefje M. Sizoo, Jan P. H. Hamers, Debby L. Gerritsen
Summary: This study aimed to investigate the impact of the reopening of nursing homes in the Netherlands on the well-being of residents, visitors, and healthcare professionals. The results showed that allowing visitors had a positive impact on the well-being of all stakeholders, although some residents with dementia showed negative effects. The study also found that maintaining social distance and correctly wearing face masks was challenging for care staff. The conclusion highlighted the substantial impact of the reopening on resident well-being and the ongoing challenge of balancing infection control and well-being.
INTERNATIONAL PSYCHOGERIATRICS
(2022)
Article
Geriatrics & Gerontology
Eefje M. Sizoo, Josi A. Thunnissen, Anouk M. Loon, Claire L. Brederveld, Helma Timmer, Simone Hendriks, Martin Smalbrugge
Summary: This study examines the course of neuropsychiatric symptoms and psychotropic drug use in nursing home residents with dementia during the lifting of restrictions after the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Netherlands. The results show that, while the overall prevalence and severity of agitation and depression decreased over time, individual experiences varied greatly. Additionally, despite the challenging circumstances of the pandemic, psychotropic drug use remained stable.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GERIATRIC PSYCHIATRY
(2022)
Article
Geriatrics & Gerontology
Dennis van de Veen, Christian Bakker, Kirsten Peetoom, Yolande Pijnenburg, Janne Papma, Marjolein de Vugt, Raymond Koopmans
Summary: This study aims to reach consensus on the terminology and operational definition of dementia at a young age through a classical Delphi technique. The survey results show that there is consensus on some statements, but further discussion is needed for some details. Therefore, it is recommended to organize an in person consensus meeting to address these issues.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GERIATRIC PSYCHIATRY
(2022)
Article
Nursing
Lihui Pu, Michel W. Coppieters, Joshua Byrnes, Cindy Jones, Martin Smalbrugge, Michael Todorovic, Wendy Moyle
Summary: This study aims to test the feasibility and efficacy of using the PainChek app and PARO robot to improve pain management for people with dementia in residential aged care facilities. The study will assess the impact of these tools on pain levels, neuropsychiatric symptoms, quality of life, and medication use, while also gathering feedback from participants, staff, and family members on their perceptions of these tools.
JOURNAL OF ADVANCED NURSING
(2022)
Article
Geriatrics & Gerontology
Judith H. van den Besselaar, Marije Spaargaren, Martin Smalbrugge, Fleur M. H. P. A. Koene, Loes Termeulen, Cees M. P. M. Hertogh, Bianca M. Buurman
Summary: Despite the majority of nursing homes in the Netherlands testing residents and staff regardless of symptoms during outbreaks, barriers such as lack of knowledge among local leaders, absence of specialized staff or cohort wards, and inadequate collaboration with laboratories or public health services hindered the full implementation of serial testing. However, willingness among staff to undergo testing and the availability of PCR tests were important facilitators for successful testing implementation in nursing homes.
JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN GERIATRICS SOCIETY
(2022)
Article
Geriatrics & Gerontology
Bastiaan P. H. ter Brugge, Vera A. van Atteveld, Nienke Fleuren, Margo H. Douma, Mieke B. van der Ploeg, Jelle E. Hoeksma, Martin Smalbrugge, Eefje M. Sizoo
Summary: The study explored how physicians in Dutch nursing homes practiced advance care planning (ACP) during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, revealing changes such as COVID-19 infection as a reason for initiating ACP and a higher frequency of ACP discussions. These changes highlight the importance of maintaining contact with surrogate decision makers for mutual understanding and facilitating decision-making in ACP.
JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN MEDICAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION
(2022)
Review
Clinical Neurology
Stevie Hendriks, Kirsten Peetoom, Christian Bakker, Raymond Koopmans, Wiesje van der Flier, Janne Papma, Frans Verhey, Marjolein de Vugt, Sebastian Kohler
Summary: Reliable data on the incidence rates for young-onset dementia are lacking, but this study provides the current best estimate. The global age-standardized incidence rate for the age group of 30 to 64 is 11 per 100,000, with 370,000 new cases occurring annually.
ALZHEIMERS & DEMENTIA
(2023)
Article
Geriatrics & Gerontology
Djura O. Coers, Marike E. de Boer, Eefje M. Sizoo, Martin Smalbrugge, Carlo J. W. Leget, Cees M. P. M. Hertogh
Summary: In the Netherlands, a case of euthanasia involving a patient with dementia and an advance euthanasia directive (AED) sparked controversy and led to a petition signed by over 450 physicians. This study investigated the motivations behind the physicians' support for the petition, revealing dilemmas related to "sneaky euthanasia," oversimplified societal debate, personal moral boundaries, and growing pressure on physicians. The study also highlighted the need for better guidance in addressing end-of-life care decisions and communication with patients.
Article
Geriatrics & Gerontology
Gerrie van Voorden, Raymond T. C. M. Koopmans, Martin Smalbrugge, Sytse U. Zuidema, Anne M. A. van den Brink, Anke Persoon, Richard Oude C. Voshaar, Debby L. Gerritsen
Summary: This study identified successful treatment of persons with dementia and severe challenging behavior, focusing on the well-being of all people involved. Multidisciplinary analysis and treatment as well as the attitudes and skills of those involved are essential to achieving successful treatment outcomes.
AGING & MENTAL HEALTH
(2023)
Article
Neurosciences
Stevie Hendriks, Kirsten Peetoom, Huibert Tange, Janne Papma, Wiesje M. van der Flier, Raymond Koopmans, Christian Bakker, Sebastian Kohler, Marjolein de Vugt
Summary: This study investigated the healthcare use of 75 persons with young-onset dementia (YOD) and identified factors influencing care use. The main reason for general practitioners (GPs) to refer for diagnosis was concerns of caregivers. After diagnosis, a majority of persons received care services, such as case management, day care, and admission to a long-term care facility. However, the presence of a case manager was associated with a lower rate of admission to a long-term care facility. Reasons for not initiating care included reluctance of the persons with YOD or their caregivers, patient death, or lack of GP referral. In conclusion, care use varied among persons with YOD due to different needs and factors, suggesting room for improvement in the care system.
JOURNAL OF ALZHEIMERS DISEASE
(2023)
Article
Geriatrics & Gerontology
Johanna M. H. Nijsten, Annette O. A. Plouvier, Martin Smalbrugge, Raymond T. C. M. Koopmans, Ruslan Leontjevas, Debby L. Gerritsen
Summary: The Shared Action for Breaking through Apathy (SABA) program is a feasible intervention for identifying and managing apathy in people with dementia. It increases caregivers' knowledge and awareness of apathy and its impact on relationships. Caregivers also develop skills to manage apathy and focus on small-scale activities. The program’s materials are considered useful and compatible with current procedures.
AGING & MENTAL HEALTH
(2023)
Article
Computer Science, Information Systems
Naomi Rasing, Sarah Janus, Martin Smalbrugge, Raymond Koopmans, Sytse Zuidema
Summary: The study assessed user experiences, barriers, and facilitators of the Dutch 'Psychotropic Drug Tool' smartphone application (PDT) in appropriate prescribing of psychotropic drugs to nursing home residents with dementia and neuropsychiatric symptoms. The results indicated mediocre user satisfaction with the PDT, suggesting the need for optimization before broader implementation.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MEDICAL INFORMATICS
(2023)
Article
Geriatrics & Gerontology
Jorna van Eijk, Jeanine J. S. Rutten, Cees M. P. M. Hertogh, Martin Smalbrugge, Laura W. van Buul
Summary: This study aimed to assess the UTI-related signs and symptoms in nursing home residents with impaired awareness or ability to communicate, and develop supportive tools for nursing staff. The results showed that it is more difficult to assess UTI-related signs and symptoms in residents with cognitive disorders, but observation checklist and 24-hour observation tool can support nursing staff in their observation.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OLDER PEOPLE NURSING
(2023)
Article
Psychology, Clinical
Maud Daemen, Jeroen Bruinsma, Christian Bakker, Rob Groot Zwaaftink, Raymond Koopmans, Andrea Oostijen, Bernard Loose, Frans Verhey, Marjolein de Vugt, Kirsten Peetoom
Summary: This study evaluates the Dutch version of the web-based information and support program for caregivers of persons with young-onset dementia (YOD). The program showed good user acceptability, usability, and satisfaction. Participants found the program to be useful and usable in daily life, and emphasized the need for a central platform providing educational and practical information about YOD.
INTERNET INTERVENTIONS-THE APPLICATION OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY IN MENTAL AND BEHAVIOURAL HEALTH
(2022)
