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Abstract

Research trials on cholinesterase inhibitors, memantine and antidepressants for behavioral and psychological symptoms in vascular/mixed dementia in long-term care settings are nearly non-existent. The absence of approved medications for vascular dementia offers practicing clinicians few treatment options. Off-label use of Alzheimer�s approved drugs and antidepressants are more practical than risking pneumonia, hip fracture, cerebrovascular accidents and dysphagia from anti-psychotic use for vascular/mixed dementia behaviors. Long-term care admissions for vascular dementia will rapidly increase with Baby Boomers diagnosed with Type II diabetes, obesity and cardiac or cerebrovascular risk factors. Behaviors of vascular and mixed dementia; often compounded by vascular depression, significantly impact quality of life of long-term care residents, cohabitant residents, family members and nursing staff. A gerontological nurse practitioner/dementia consultant will review behavioral and mood responses to cholinesterase inhibitors, memantine and anti-depressants in nursing home residents diagnosed with vascular and mixed dementia. Case studies and informal surveys summarizing four years of long-term care dementia management will be presented.

Biography

Susan Scanland is a Gerontological Nurse Practitioner for 34 years and also a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP). She is one of two nurse practitioners worldwide holding the credential of Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) from the National Speakers Association. She has presented at over 600 meetings in 42 states, Canada and the Caribbean through her business Dementia Connection®. She is a Faculty Specialist at the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania. Her clinical practice has been limited to dementia, depression and delirium management for the past 12 years in long-term care and telehealth.

Email: susan@dementiaconnection.com