Personal conflicts, even violence, are not uncommon in long-term care
Those most likely to be involved are younger and able to walk, "able to move and put themselves in harm's way," Dr. Pillemer said. Most had at least moderate cognitive impairment. The studies also found that incidents occurred more often in specialized dementia units. “Memory care has positive elements, but it also puts residents at greater risk of assault,” Dr. Pillemer said. “More people with brain disease, uninhibited people, gather in a smaller space.” Because so many, both perpetrators and victims, suffer from dementia, "sometimes we can't say what started it all," said Leanne Rorick, director of a program that…
