A retrospective study examining the properties and characteristics of dementia patients in a palliative care center

Abstract

Background/aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate why dementia patients (DPs) are admitted to a palliative care center (PCC) and which factors affect the length of stay (LOS) of DPs in the PCC, and to predict the course of the disease. Materials and methods: The files of DPs were scanned retrospectively in the PCC between 2013 and 2016. Data related to age, sex, LOS, symptoms, clinical conditions, comorbidities, and prognosis were recorded. Results: The study included 85 DPs with a mean age of 84.1 ± 6.7 years. LOS was determined as a median of 15.0 days. While LOS decreased due to age and cancer, it increased due to pressure injury. Although mortality was increased by LOS, it was decreased by hypertension, mobilization, and percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy. Among the DPs who were admitted to the PCC, the death rate was 54.1% and the discharge rate was 45.9%. Conclusion: It is concluded that adopting a palliative care approach eases symptom management. While this approach decreases the burden of symptoms, it at the same time increases the quality of life of DPs and their families.