CAlming Touch for People With Agitation or Other Behavioural Symptoms of DEMentia: A Randomized Feasibility Trial (CADEM)

Dementia is an increasing health challenge among elderly citizens in Denmark. An estimated 87,000 Danes live with dementia, and this number is expected to increase to 130,000 in 2030. Psychiatric symptoms and behavioral changes decrease quality of life for patients and their spouses and is a challenge for caretakers. Behavior changes include agitation which can be divided in four sub-groups: 1) physical aggression, 2) physical non-aggression, 3) verbal aggression, and 4) verbal non-aggression. Pharmaceutical management of behavioral changes is common and may be associated with negative side-effects including drowsiness and falls. Though non-pharmaceutical interventions such as music, massage and social activities have been recommended the underlying evidence is limited. In this randomized feasibility trial, we will investigate the feasibility and acceptability of therapeutic touch aiming to reduce agitated behavior in people living with dementia in a nursing home that specializes in the care of people living with severe dementia