ABSTRACT
In the relative absence of hard evidence, the discussion of principles and consensus in the longterm care of people with dementia should proceed in order to provide a framework for debate and research. In this context, the discussion of the understanding of behavioral disorders in
cerebral vascular disease and dementia is relevant, as the two areas frequently coexist. Indeed, behavioral disorder is a major risk factor that leads to early or premature institutionalization into longterm care (Colerick and George, 1986; O’Donnell et al, 1992), is present in up to 90% of patients in nursing homes (Finkel, 1998), and has a negative impact on the quality of life of patients and families (Finkel et al, 1996).
