Management of verbally disruptive behaviors in nursing home residents

Author(s): Werner, P.

Journal/Book: J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. 1997; 52: M369-77.

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Verbally disruptive behaviors (VDB) are verbal or vocal behaviors that are inappropriate to the circumstances in which they are manifested. These behaviors are a source of concern because they disturb persons around the older person and may be an indicator of distress. METHODS: Three interventions were tried and compared to a control no-intervention phase. The interventions were: (1) Presentation of a videotape of a family member talking to the older person, (2) in vivo social interaction, and (3) use of music. RESULTS: Thirty-two nursing home residents suffering from dementia and manifesting VDB were observed before, during, and after the interventions, and the duration of VDB was recorded. The behaviors decreased by 56% during the social interaction, 46% during the videotape, 31% during the music, and 16% during the no-intervention. CONCLUSIONS: The effects of the interventions were clinically and statistically significant, indicating the importance of providing stimulating activities and a richer environment to cognitively impaired nursing home residents.

Keyword(s): Aged. Aged, 80 and over. Cognition Disorders/therapy. Female. Human. Interpersonal Relations. Male. Nursing Homes. Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.. Verbal Behavior

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