Objective

To analyse the results of eliminating physical restraints in elderly people with dementia living in residential care homes. This objective is part of a broader process of changing the model of residential care.

Method

Quasi-experimental study in two residential homes from May 2010 to May 2012. Data were collected at 7 points in time and a longitudinal analysis was carried out. After training the staff, physical restraints were progressively withdrawn in the El Puig centre, while in the Conarda centre restraints were maintained. The main variables measured were: falls, psychotropic drugs administered, as well as various indicators of mental and functional status (Norton, NPI, Minimental, Tinetti, Barthel).

Results

In the centre where all physical restraints were eliminated (El Puig), a slight improvement was observed in the number of falls and their consequences improved slightly, although not statistically significant. The ANOVA showed significant improvements in the centre where restraints were eliminated with respect to the prescription of psychotropic drugs, cognitive impairment and behavioural alterations.

Reference:

Tortosa, M.A; Granell, R. Fuenmayor, A.; Martínez, M. (2016): Efectos de un programa de eliminación de sujeciones físicas sobre personas mayores con demencia en residencias, Revista Española de Geriatría y Gerontología, 51(1), pp. 5-10. DOI: 10.1016/j.regg.2015.06.006