Clinical study of respiratory function and difference in pneumonia history between Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia groups

Abstract

[Purpose] This study compared respiratory function and differences in pneumonia history between Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia groups. [Subjects] Fifty-eight inpatients in the dementia treatment ward in a psychiatric facility were enrolled. [Methods] Patients underwent respiratory function testing twice using an 80-cm party horn. The Mini-Mental State Examination was also performed and motor functions were evaluated. Patient characteristics were obtained from medical records. [Results] Significant differences were noted between Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia groups in the ability to blow the party horn to full length, pneumonia history, and presence of impaired mobility. [Conclusion] Party horn evaluation may be useful for determining the risk of pneumonia in patients with dementia. © 2014 The Society of Physical Therapy Science.