Effects of reality orientation therapy on elderly patients in the community

Twenty-three institutionalized subjects, confused and disoriented as to time, space and persons, were divided into two groups: the study group and the control group. The study group then participated in a 3-month period of formal Realithy Orientation Therapy (ROT). At the end of the 3 months of therapy significant differences emerged in the scores of MMSE, OSGP and GDS obtained by the two groups. Moreover, significant positive differences were observed only in the study group, comparing the tests' results before and after therapy. Even the comparison of the results obtained at the end of the sessions and 3 months after the interruption of the therapy revealed a difference in the trends that emerged for the two groups.

[Computerized graphic techniques in the interdisciplinary information communication in geriatrics]

Geriatric research shows that multidimensional assessment (MA) is the best method of approaching the complex functional problems of elderly subjects which are characterized by a close interdependence of clinical, social and mental factors. A correct and standardized communication of the results and the indications deriving from this complex interdisciplinary system is essential to enable the operators, despite their different professional backgrounds, to become involved in ensuring the health and welfare of their patients using integration and coordination criteria which are appropriate to the patient's individual situation. In this context, a computerized MA programme, known as "Senior", has been designed. The programme provides two communication sheets of data with different professional orientations: I) geriatric assessment sheet for doctors and other medical staff; II) graphic geriatric assessment sheet for non-medical operators. In practice, these assessment sheets are a useful backup in providing continuity between in- and out-patient programmes.

[Evaluation of pharmacologic treatment associated with motor-activation therapy in the prevention of senile impairment]

The study was designed to assess any changes in certain aspects of aging produced by combined drug (buflomedil) and motor activation therapy (MAT). The study was conducted on 3 selected groups of 10 women aged 60-74 years with initial signs of mental and physical senile impairment as revealed by appropriate psychometric and laboratories tests. The 3 groups (I: control, II: MAT, III: buflomedil + MAT) were given a series of cognitive, behavioural, affective and cardiovascular tests before and after the 6-month study. The results showed a deterioration in the parameters considered among the control group and a significant improvement especially in cardiovascular, affective and behavioural parameters as well as certain cognitive aspects (attention, mental state) in the group treated with MAT only. The combination of MAT and buflomedil had a positive influence on all parameters considered. In particular it acted extensively on the cognitive parameters. It is therefore concluded that the combination of MAT and drug treatment is a valid system for the prevention of senile impairment since it acts on the main biological, psychological and social aspects of the elderly patient.