Managing Chronic Conditions in Dementia Care
Author Information
Author(s): O’Conor Rachel, Pack Allison, Russell Andrea, Oladejo Dianne, Morhardt Darby, Lindquist Lee, Wolf Michael
Primary Institution: Northwestern University
Hypothesis
How do persons living with dementia and their caregivers manage multiple chronic conditions and polypharmacy?
Conclusion
The management of multiple chronic conditions among persons living with dementia increases caregiver burden and impacts well-being.
Supporting Evidence
- Half of all potentially avoidable hospitalizations among persons living with dementia are due to poorly controlled chronic conditions.
- PLWD managed an average of 5 chronic conditions and took 9 medicines.
- Caregivers reported feeling overwhelmed by the complexity of managing multiple chronic conditions.
Takeaway
People with dementia often have many health problems and take lots of medicines, which can make it hard for them and their caregivers to manage their health.
Methodology
Qualitative interviews with patient-caregiver dyads exploring health management behaviors.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 68 individuals with mild to moderate dementia and their caregivers, with a mean age of 78 years for PLWD and 65 years for caregivers.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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