Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is characterized by brief periods of vertigo triggered by a change in the position of the patient’s head relative to gravity. The diagnosis of BPPV is based on the patient’s history and eye movements (nystagmus) evoked during two positional tests: the Dix-Hallpike maneuver and the “supine with lateral head turns” maneuver. The direction and characteristics of the nystagmus found during the positional testing enable the clinician to determine the canal involved. Once the involved canal is identified, BPPV may be effectively treated with a physical maneuver. The maneuvers may be performed by a clinician or by patients themselves. (Annals of Long-Term Care: Clinical Care and Aging 2007;15[6]:33-39)

Dementia is often treated using the “curative” model: diagnose the illness, treat the symptoms, and try to “cure” the underlying cause of the disease. However, since dementia is a chronic, progressive illness much like emphysema and AIDS, it does not lend itself to this model. The palliative care model was developed specifically for chronic, progressive disease. It uses a multidisciplinary team to care for the patient and family throughout a life-threatening or terminal illness experience. This longitudinal approach encompasses three interrelated areas: planning, grief, and comfort care. When these interventions are done throughout the course of care, the effect can be cumulative and eliminate much of the pain and suffering associated with dementia care. (Annals of Long-Term Care: Clinical Care and Aging 2007;15[6]:41-47)