The population of ethnic elderly persons in the United States is expected to rise dramatically in the coming years, with many of these individuals having chronic illnesses, such as dementia, which will require extended care. A growing body of literature has examined the attitudes and experiences of ethnically and culturally diverse caregivers of persons with dementia. This article reviews the current literature in terms of caregiver characteristics, attitudes, and burden; models of dementia; available treatments; and research priorities. More studies are needed to determine the experiences and service needs of African-American and other ethnic elderly persons with dementia and their caregivers in order to provide effective and culturally appropriate interventions for the diagnosis and management of dementia in this population. (Annals of Long-Term Care: Clinical Care and Aging 2006;14[10]:36-40)

The authors identified an at-risk/ vulnerable population through the use of a screening tool. A statewide geriatric resource team comprised of nurse care managers, pharmacists, geriatricians, and/or other professional disciplines performed comprehensive clinical assessments and environmental home safety evaluations. Upon completion of these assessments, a care plan was developed for clients and caregivers when applicable, with a copy to the primary care physician. An evaluation of care plans was performed to determine what services or actions were recommended to address identified needs of this patient population. The authors also conducted follow-up phone calls to assess what recommended medical and community services were implemented. Findings include an increased sense of independence, safety, and greater understanding of their needs and available health services. (Annals of Long-Term Care: Clinical Care and Aging 2006;14 [10]:31-34)

Although behavioral symptoms associated with dementia in geriatric long-term care (LTC) residents are common, sexual inappropriateness (sexual disinhibition) remains one of the least understood and most difficult to treat aspects of this disease. Separating the agitation and normal sexual expression from any sexual disinhibition that may be present can be clinically challenging to the health care practitioner and LTC nursing staff. This article proposes a practical approach to the use of pharmacologic intervention for the management of sexual inappropriateness in LTC dementia residents based on the available medical literature. The important role that the LTC facility medical director can play in overseeing interventions for difficult residents is discussed. (Annals of Long-Term Care: Clinical Care and Aging 2006;14[10]:20-28)