Guidelines for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease from the Italian Association of Psychogeriatrics
Drugs & Aging
Caltagirone, C., Bianchetti, A., et al. (2005).
Drugs & Aging, 22 Suppl 1, 1-26.
These guidelines provide recommendations for professionals involved in the treatment of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.
Italian Association of Psychogeriatrics
Based on a Cochrane review of eight randomized controlled studies, reality orientation therapy was moderately effective in improving cognitive status and for the control of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia. Reality orientation should be considered in all patients (Standard Option).
"Insufficient evidence exists regarding the efficacy of reminiscence therapy in [Alzheimer's disease] patients" (p. 12). Some patients may derive benefit (Practical Option).
"Generally, there is only limited evidence that memory training, not associated with other techniques that involve cognitive and functional training, is effective for improving cognitive function in [Alzheimer's disease] patients" (p. 11). Some patients may derive benefit (Practical Option).
Findings from a Cochrane review of three randomized controlled trials showed no effect of validation therapy on cognitive function or behavior. "A more recent, experimental study also found no effects on behavior for emotion-oriented intervention in elderly patients with cognitive and behavioural problems" (p. 13). Use for research purposes only (Practical Option).
