The utility of using a cognitive scale in combination with a behavior observation scale in the evaluation of dementia in a convalescence rehabilitation ward

Abstract

[Purpose] To investigate the utility of using a behavior observation scale in combination with a cognitive scale in a convalescence rehabilitation ward. [Subjects] Sixty inpatients in the convalescence rehabilitation wards of our hospital. [Methods] The behavior observation NM scale was used to divide the subjects into 4 levels of dementia severity. Then, the MMSE and NM scale at admission of each group was compared, and their associations determined. [Results] For the group with severe dementia, the MMSE assessment was unsatisfactory due to aphasia and depressive tendencies; however, a significant difference was found for the NM scale. In addition, for the groups with mild and moderate dementia, the correlation was low. [Conclusion] Because the reliability of a single assessment is poor, and cognitive assessment is affected by aphasia and depressive tendencies, a behavior observation scale which observes and assesses patients’ daily living activities is more useful.