Evidence that activity-based therapies and care can reduce the use of antipsychotics

The study carried out by University of North Carolina looked at 107 people with dementia and monitored their agitation and apathy levels along with physical and cognitive function and leisure interests. Activity-based therapies were prescribed to people with agitation or to alert those with apathy at the time of day that they were most likely to experience behavioural symptoms. The study was carried out over a two week period. Participants with limited activity participation were found to be much more likely to demonstrate apathy, agitation, or a mix of apathy and agitation.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'This research highlights the importance of good quality care for people with dementia as well as engaging them in stimulating activities. This adds to a wealth of evidence showing a lot can be done, without the use of medication, to help reduce agitation of a person with dementia.  It is estimated that 150,000 of the 180,000 people on antipsychotics are prescribed them inappropriately. These drugs double the risk of death and treble the risk of stroke yet have little benefit. It is essential we bring an end to this chemical cosh now.'

'It is vital to provide care staff and doctors with advice, guidance and training on alternative approaches to help them to avoid the use of antipsychotics. In particular, it is important for them to see the person behind the condition and understand what is causing their behaviour.'

Dr Anne Corbett
Research Manager
Alzheimer's Society

Research Reference:
The Science of Using Therapeutic Activities as Interventions for Neuropsychiatric Behaviours, L Buettner, University of North Carolina - presented on Friday 9 March 2012 at the Alzheimer's Disease International Conference

- Ends -

Notes to editors:

About Alzheimer's Disease International (ADI) Conference:

• Journalists wishing to attend the conference will need a press pass in advance. To request one, and to arrange interviews, please contact Emma Fielder or Alex Valk, Alzheimer's Society press office, 020 7423 3595, press@alzheimers.org.uk
• ADI 2012 will take place from Wednesday, 07 March until Saturday, 10 March in the Capital Suite and ICC Capital Hall of ExCeL London, Royal Victoria Docks, London. To reach the suite travel to Prince Regent Street DLR. For further information on travel visit excel-london.co.uk/visitors/travel
• ADI 2012 covers the themes Science, Fact, Fiction with exciting plenaries and debates to interest professionals, scientists, researchers, policy makers, people living with dementia, informal and professional carers
• Alzheimer's Disease International (ADI) is the international federation of 76 Alzheimer associations around the world. Each member represents the national Alzheimer association in their country which supports people with dementia and their families. For more information visit alz.co.uk
  
• ADI is based in London and is registered as a non-profit organisation in Illinois, USA. ADI has been in official relations with the World Health Organisation (WHO) since 1996. ADI's vision is an improved quality of life for people with dementia and their families throughout the world
• There are 36 million people with dementia in the world and the global economic cost of dementia is US$604 billion. (Source: World Alzheimer Report 2009 and World Alzheimer Report 2010.)
• For further information on the conference visit adi2012.org. To find out more about the federation visit alz.co.uk
  

About Alzheimer's Society:

• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than 10 years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them
• Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
• Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
  
• Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk
• Press Office: 0207 423 3595  Out of hours: 07802 688774
• Press room at ADI: 0207 069 6015 Email: press@alzheimers.org.uk