The support system in hospitalization for physical complications of patients with dementia

Shinichi Miyao

Meitetsu Hospital, Neurocognitive Disorder Medical Center

Delirium and behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia are often observed when dementia patients （DP） are hospitalized for physical complications.　DP are more likely to develop disuse and eating disorders on admission, and therefore motor activity, cognitive function, and nutritional status may become worse during the course of hospitalization.　Furthermore, the intentions of DP are not easily reflected during the treatment.　In some cases, discharge support may not take into account the unique difficulties of dementia.　These problems cannot be easily solved, but their resolution requires an improved understanding of dementia among all hospital staff, a multidisciplinary team of experts who can be consulted promptly when hard-to-deal with circumstances arise, and strong support from senior management who make these activities a hospital-wide policy.

Address correspondence to Dr. Shinichi Miyao, Meitetsu Hospital, Neurocognitive Disorder Medical Center （2-26-11 Sako, Nishi-ku, Nagoya-shi, Aichi 451-8511, Japan）