Research shows that few social workers are interested in working with cognitively impaired older adults, such as those with Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia. As the number of individuals with dementia grows, the demand for social workers to provide services to patients with dementia will increase. Although much attention has been given to…

This study evaluated the effectiveness of advanced illness care teams (AICTs) for nursing home residents with advanced dementia. The AICTs used a holistic approach that focused on four domains: (1) medical, (2) meaningful activities, (3) psychological, and (4) behavioral. The authors recruited 118 residents in two nursing homes for this study and…

This study evaluated the impact of an information and referral intervention designed to help family caregivers of people with dementia obtain needed health and human services. Caregivers (N = 608) of community-residing people with dementia were surveyed about their need for and use of community services. Of the 608 caregivers, 203 agreed to be…

Notes that social workers face new challenges in meeting changing service needs of people with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Discusses San Francisco's efforts to serve people with AIDS who are suffering from AIDS-related cognitive impairments that range from mild cognitive disturbance to moderate and severe AIDS dementia complex…

Describes a group therapy program for nursing home residents suffering from senile dementia which concentrates on techniques that help individuals with impaired communication to interrelate successfully. Principles of ego-supportive group therapy sessions are discussed. A case study is included. (NRB)

Reviews the research on dementia as it applies to patients suffering from acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Describes dementia as involving an acquired persistent impairment of intellectual function with compromises in mental activity, emotions and personality, and cognition. Identifies the unique social, emotional, and legal issues…