Postural stability in the cognitively impaired elderly: A systematic review of the literature.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to review the literature and critically analyse publications connecting cognitive impairment with postural stability. METHODS: Four electronic databases were searched. The inclusion criteria comprised the relation between the process of maintaining balance and cognitive impairment. RESULTS: Of the 153 selected articles, 15 met the inclusion criteria. In 83% of publications, cognitive status was determined with the use of the Mini-Mental State Examination. In eight publications, postural stability was examined using force plates. Other methods used to test the balance were functional tests, i.e. the Berg Balance Scale or the Balance Evaluation Systems Test. CONCLUSION: As the choice of methodology varies significantly, it is difficult to attempt an objective comparison between different studies. There is a clear need for the normalisation of methods used to assess the degree of dementia and to assess postural stability among this group of people.

An Assessment of the Burden on Polish Caregivers of Patients With Dementia: A Preliminary Study.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of the study was to assess the level of burden of caregivers of persons with dementia and to analyze the factors related to the sense of burden. METHODS: The study group consisted of 58 caregivers with an average age of 54.7 (± 12.6) and 45 (78%) were women. The Caregiver Burden Scale, the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), the Berlin Social Support Scale (BSSS), and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) were used. RESULTS: In the study group, 93% could rely on help in caring for the patient, provided mainly by the family. Most caregivers demonstrated a medium level of burden (2.63 ± 0.61). A significant correlation was found between the level of caregiver burden and caregiving frequency, BSSS, BDI, and SWLS. CONCLUSIONS: A lot of factors influence the caregivers' burden. It appears necessary to take into consideration the cultural, religious, and economic distinctiveness of the country in question.