Open AccessInvestigating the effects of impairment in non‐verbal communication on neuropsychiatric symptoms and quality of life of people living with dementia
Author(s) -
Khan Zunera,
Da Silva Miguel Vasconcelos,
Nunez KayleighMarie,
Kalafatis Chris,
Nowicki Steven,
Walker Zuzana,
Testad Ingelin,
Francis Paul,
Ballard Clive
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
alzheimer's and dementia: translational research and clinical interventions
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.49
H-Index - 30
ISSN - 2352-8737
DOI - 10.1002/trc2.12172
Subject(s) - dementia , quality of life (healthcare) , psychology , gerontology , psychiatry , medicine , clinical psychology , disease , psychotherapist , pathology
People living with dementia in nursing homes have complex needs; impairments in cognition, communication, and daily function; neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS); and poor quality of life (QoL). The current study examines impairments in non‐verbal communication as a potential driver of NPS and QoL. Methods One hundred nursing home residents with dementia were assessed using the Emory Dyssemia Index (EDI), Neuropsychiatric Inventory Nursing Home version (NPI‐NH), Quality of Life in Alzheimer's Disease (QoL‐AD) at baseline, 12‐, and 24‐week follow‐up. Results The quantile regression (0.5) model indicated that impairment of non‐verbal communication was independently associated with the severity of NPS ( P = .001) and proxy reported QoL ( P < .05), levels of agitation ( P < .05), and professional caregiver burden ( P < .05). Discussion These results highlight a novel potential approach to improve NPS and QoL using retained elements of non‐verbal communication, particularly for people with severe dementia.