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Consistency of information from persons with dementia

An analysis of differences by question type

Margaret Blenkner Research Institute, The Benjamin Rose Institute, USA, pclark{at}benrose.org

Shandra S. Tucke

Margaret Blenkner Research Institute, The Benjamin Rose Institute, USA, s.tucke{at}sbcglobal.net

Carol J. Whitlatch

Margaret Blenkner Research Institute, The Benjamin Rose Institute, USA, cwhitlat{at}benrose.org

This analysis examines the ability of persons with mild to moderate dementia (MMSE scores 13—30 and/or a dementia diagnosis) to provide consistent and accurate information. Data come from interviews with 213 persons with dementia (PWDs) and their family caregivers (CG). Consistency was assessed by determining agreement between responses provided by PWDs during two in-person interviews. Accuracy was assessed by determining agreement between PWD responses and CG responses. Overall, PWDs provided consistent and accurate responses to fact-based questions and were consistent in their responses to state-dependent items. Less impaired respondents were more consistent in their responses to fact-based items. Among respondents with more severe impairment, there were no significant differences in consistency by question type. This work responds to the need to gain a better understanding of the opinions and experiences of dementia and offers further evidence that many PWDs can provide consistent and accurate information. Findings support increased involvement of individuals with dementia in research and care planning.

Key Words: accuracy • caregiving dyad • reliability

Dementia, Vol. 7, No. 3, 341-358 (2008)
DOI: 10.1177/1471301208093288


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