The Progression of Personality Changes in Senile Dementia of the Alzheimer's Type

Passive, agitated, and self‐centered behavioral changes were noted on initial evaluation in two‐thirds, one‐third, and one‐third, respectively, of subjects with mild senile dementia of the Alzheimer's type (SDAT). Over a 50‐month follow‐up period, the percentage of patients who exhibited agitated and self‐centered behaviors doubled. The percentage of subjects who demonstrated all three behavioral changes increased from 11% at entry to the study (mild SDAT) to over 50% when the dementia had reached a severe stage. The presence of personality changes at a mild stage of dementia did not predispose subjects to more rapid progression to a more advanced stage of illness. 1987 The American Geriatrics Society