Abstract:

In this article is reported the experience of a Gerontology department in the treatment of psychological and behavioral disorders, by means of an internal day care center. Historically, the creation of a day care center, within the Gerontology departement of the Bicêtre hospital (France), was the result of a reflection and experiences carried out for several years, about the difficult care of inpatients with psychological and behavioral disorders. The project was designed to meet the need of creating a place where these disorders might be more completely understood and treated. The main indications of the day care center are the psychological and behavioral disorders in dementia; these disorders are bound directly to dementia or are symptoms of anxiety, depression or delusion. Limits are imposed by the patient condition, particularly if there is a very severe cognitive impairment, an apathy or certain personality disorders. …