Psychosis, depression and behavioural disturbances in Sydney nursing home residents: prevalence and predictors

Background There is wide variation in the rates of behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) reported in nursing homes. Aims This study aimed to investigate: (1) the prevalence of BPSD in nursing home residents using the BEHAVE-AD; (2) the relationships of BPSD with (a) demographic, (b) dementia, (c) diurnal and (d) nursing home variables: and (3) the interrelationships between different types of BPSD, as measured by subscales of the BEHAVE-AD. Results Over 90% of residents exhibited at least one behavioural disturbance. Specifically, there was evidence of psychosis in 60%, depressed mood in 42% and activity disturbances or aggression in 82% of residents. Younger, more functionally impaired residents with a chart diagnosis of psychosis had higher BPSD rates, as did those residing in larger nursing homes. Individual BPSD were significantly intercorrelated. Conclusions BPSD are ubiquitous in nursing home residents. Behavioural disturbances are frequently associated with psychosis and/or depression. The findings suggest the need for psychogeriatric services to nursing homes and smaller facilities. Copyright (C) 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.