The Association Between the Burden on Formal Caregivers and Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD) in Korean Elderly in Nursing Homes

Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) are sources of psychological distress for caregivers who take care of people with dementia. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between BPSD and the burden on formal caregivers of nursing homes in South Korea. Results showed that the total severity score of BPSD had a statistically significant positive correlation with the total distress score. Agitation/Aggression was the most distressing symptom for registered nurses and care workers. These findings suggest that there is a need for improved treatments for BPSD, to help mitigate its burden on formal caregivers.