Impact and Needs in Caregiving for Individuals With Dementia and Comorbid Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Living in Nursing Homes

• What does this research add to existing knowledge in gerontology? 

•  Recognition of possible PTSD is essential for a trauma-sensitive approach in individuals with dementia in nursing homes.
•  Research in this area is needed and feasible. 
•  The current article mentions available treatment possibilities and care approaches in individuals with both possible PTSD and dementia in nursing homes.

• What are the implications of this new knowledge for nursing care for and with older adults?

• By improving the understanding and needs of individuals with dementia and possible PTSD, nursing staff can adapt their care accordingly.
•  Nursing staff are better able to accept and understand the challenging behaviour when it is clear what caused the behaviour (e.g., fear).

• How could the findings be used to influence practice, education, research, and policy?

• The current findings emphasise the need to enhance knowledge of PTSD in individuals with dementia in nursing homes as well as its impact on both the individuals themselves and nursing staff.
•  With an increasing number of individuals with dementia, educating nursing staff will be important to distinguish neuropsychiatric symptoms and possible PTSD symptoms, and improve care approaches.