PhD defence Jessica Everdina Ruisch

Keywords: Dementia, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy, Trauma

"PTSD in older adults and people with dementia: Implications for geriatric care"

Potentially traumatic events and negative childhood experiences are common. Some people develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is associated with, among other things, cognitive decline, frailty, and a reduced quality of life. This thesis investigates the consequences of PTSD in older adults, with particular attention to people with dementia, a population that has received relatively little attention in research to date.

The results show that more PTSD symptoms are associated with poorer executive functioning. In people with dementia Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, appears to be a potentially effective treatment and is generally well tolerated, although adaptations are needed due to the dementia. In addition, PTSD symptoms may be associated with a lower quality of life through increased frailty.

Finally, the thesis highlights the impact on formal caregivers. They may experience moral distress when behaviour related to a past trauma leads to resistance or discomfort in nursing homes. So, recognizing, treating, and supporting both people with dementia and healthcare professionals is essential.

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