Dynamic structural equation modelling evaluating the progressively lowered stress threshold as an explanation for behavioural symptoms of dementia.

This study tested whether a commonly used nursing model does in fact explain the occurrence of behavioural symptoms of dementia. The main findings support using the model as an intervention framework and suggest the model should be adapted to consider recovery trajectories. Since behavioural symptoms of dementia represent complex and dynamic temporal phenomena, traditional longitudinal assessments and analyses are an insufficient measurement modality for testing models. Findings inform the design of environmental-modification type interventions for behavioural symptoms of dementia management and the methods to evaluate such interventions.