Download PDF: RAC Communique 2014-07
In this edition
Editorial
Welcome to the June 2014 issue of RAC Communiqué, in which we examine two cases involving the use of medication for residents who have dementia and the associated behavioural and psychological symptoms (BPSD). This topic continues to be hotly debated in clinical settings and popular media. Caring for persons with dementia requires a considered holistic approach, empathy, tolerance, and managing risk to self and others. Being able to do this in the middle of the night with competing demands from other residents is not an easy task.
The findings from research studies are generally consistent and clear about the limited efficacy of medications in treating BPSD. However, alternative practical real life solutions are often difficult to consistently apply. This issue of RAC Communiqué is somewhat longer than usual, as we wanted to include the details of each case and an expert commentary.
We would like to thank the hundreds of subscribers who complete the survey evaluating the RAC Communiqué. The responses are being collated and we will publish the results later this year. Finally, we are giving the RAC Communiqué and our website a ‘makeover’ to coincide with the return of our sister publication, which is focuses on acute hospital care.