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Résumé :
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Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a common degenerative disease characterized by chronic cognitive impairment. Apart from cognitive impairments, psychological and behavioral symptoms of Alzheimer's disease (PBSAD), also known as neuropsychiatric symptoms, are crucial components responsible for morbidity, which can directly affect the quality of life of both patients and professional caregivers. Symptoms such as agitation, depression, anxiety, aggression, apathy, and delusions are common at every stage of AD and may escalate as the disease progresses. While considerable research has been devoted to understanding the impact of PBSAD on family caregivers, there has been less examination of the experiences of professional caregivers. We reviewed the classification and structure of PBSAD, the effects on professional caregiver burden, and the strain caused by the most difficult symptoms on healthcare personnel. Tools like the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) and various burden assessment scales, including the Zarit Burden Interview, have been utilized to evaluate how often these symptoms occur and their severity, and their effects on caregivers. Agitation and aggression were reported as particularly challenging. This review also describes non-pharmacologic strategies to address PBSAD and reduce formal caregiver burden. Since PBS vary widely in both type and intensity, specific training and supportive networks are required to ensure that health care providers have the tools they need to address these symptoms. A better understanding of the relationship between PBSAD and professional caregiver burden will enable strategies to designed to optimize patient care and foster the wellness of both professional caregivers and the patients themselves.
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