Levels of aggression and alcohol use in populations with dementia

Abstract

This study investigated levels of aggression and alcohol use in populations with dementia. The hypothesis was that there would be a positive relationship between levels of harm and alcohol use as reported by the caregiver. One hundred caregiver/respondents returned surveys which inquired about the level of alcohol use and frequency of verbal or physical harm to the caregiver or anyone else. A two (gender) by six ( type of drinker) ANOVA was used to analyze the results, with verbal and physical harm as the dependent measures. Significance (p = <.05; F = 2.37) was noted for all six levels regarding type of drinker and verbal or physical harm. For gender differences, significance was noted in the "physical harm, anyone" variable (p = <.05; F = 4.00). This outcome was of particular interest, in view of the lack of literature on female alcohol abuse associated with verbal or physical harm.

Management of person with dementia with aggressive and violent behaviour: a systematic literature review

“…, 2000). However, a link between premorbid personality and aggressive/violent behaviour in people with dementia can be seen (Messner, 2000; Low et al. , 2002; Foley et al.…”

“…The first theme, 'origins that may trigger violence', showed no differences in the character or severity of agitation in residents' behaviour depending on what type of dementia diagnosis the person had (Kunik et al, 2000). However, a (Messner, 2000;Low et al, 2002;Foley et al, 2003;Orengo et al, 2008). Aggression in the mild stage of dementia is rather common and Orengo et al (2008) report prevalent figures that out of 20% of patients with mild dementia, 67% showed a premorbid personality.…”

“…Another seldom discussed problem connected to a premorbid personality is the fact that approximately 10–15% of the population is living their life with some kind of personality disorder, most of which go unidentified by the healthcare system (Widiger & Sanderson, 1997; Ottosson, 2000). These people tend to have violent behaviour: for example, domestic violence or drug use (Messner, 2000). When people with a personality disturbance get older and experience dementia it is logical to assume that their violent character is strengthened and that they continue to act aggressively and violently.…”