Cognitive reframing for carers of people with dementia
Abstract Background The balance of evidence about whether psychosocial interventions for caregivers of people with dementia could reduce carers’ psychological morbidity and delay their relatives’ institutionalisation is now widely regarded as moderately positive (Brodaty 2003; Spijker 2008). Multi-component, tailor-made psychosocial interventions are considered to be particularly promising (Brodaty 2003; Spijker 2008). These interventions involve multiple […]
Almitrine-Raubasine combination for dementia
Abstract Background Almitrine-raubasine combination (brand name Duxil), has been considered as an alternative treatment for dementia. Objectives To determine the clinical efficacy and safety of Duxil in the treatment of patients with dementia. Search methods We searched the Cochrane Dementia and Cognitive Improvement Group Specialised Register (now known as ALOIS) (September 2009), the China Biological […]
Cognition-based interventions for healthy older people and people with mild cognitive impairment
Abstract Background Evidence from some, but not all non-randomised studies suggest the possibility that cognitive training may influence cognitive functioning in older people. Due to the differences among cognitive training interventions reported in the literature, giving a general overview of the current literature remains difficult. Objectives To systematically review the literature and summarize the effect […]
Ginseng for cognition
Abstract Background Ginseng is a herbal medicine in widespread use throughout the world. Its effect on the brain and nervous system has been investigated. It has been suggested, on the basis of both laboratory and clinical studies, that it may have beneficial effects on cognitive performance. Objectives To evaluate the efficacy and adverse effects of […]
Benzodiazepines for delirium
Abstract Background Delirium occurs in 30% of hospitalised patients and is associated with prolonged hospital stay and increased morbidity and mortality. The results of uncontrolled studies have been unclear, with some suggesting that benzodiazepines may be useful in controlling non-alcohol related delirium. Objectives To determine the effectiveness and incidence of adverse effects of benzodiazapines in […]
Blood pressure lowering in patients without prior cerebrovascular disease for prevention of cognitive impairment and dementia
Abstract Background This is an update of a previous review (McGuinness 2006). Hypertension and cognitive impairment are prevalent in older people. Hypertension is a direct risk factor for vascular dementia (VaD) and recent studies have suggested hypertension impacts upon prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Therefore does treatment of hypertension prevent cognitive decline? Objectives To assess […]
Special care units for dementia individuals with behavioural problems
Abstract Background The behavioural problems of people with dementia are often considered as one of the most challenging issues in caring. Special Care Units (SCUs) have flourished since the 1980s with the aim of taking care of dementia patients, usually those with Alzheimer’s disease, and in particular for those with behavioural problems. Although lacking a […]
Valproate preparations for agitation in dementia
Abstract Background Agitation affects up to 70% of older people with dementia. Valproic acid derivatives have been used for the past 10 years to control agitation in dementia, but no systematic review of the effectiveness of this treatment has been published to date. A systematic review of 2004 examined three randomised, placebo-controlled trials of the […]
Huperzine A for vascular dementia
Abstract Background Huperzine A, a form of herbal medicine, has been considered as an alternative treatment for vascular dementia (VaD) in China. Objectives To assess the efficacy and safety of Huperzine A in patients with vascular dementia. Search methods We searched ALOIS: the Cochrane Dementia and Cognitive Improvement Group’s Specialized Register on 10 February 2011 […]
Cannabinoids for the treatment of dementia
Abstract Background Following the discovery of an endogenous cannabinoid system and the identification of specific cannabinoid receptors in the central nervous system, much work has been done to investigate the main effects of these compounds. There is increasing evidence that the cannabinoid system may regulate neurodegenerative processes such as excessive glutamate production, oxidative stress and […]