Abstract
Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) reduce the quality of life of dementia patients and
their families. BPSDs are classified as " overactivity syndrome, " with excited state, and " low activity syndrome, " with depressive state. Low activity BPSDs can remain unidentified by dementia care providers because of inconspicuous patient behaviors. In this study, existing literature was reviewed using reports on nursing practice for patients with low activity BPSDs to examine the current situation and issues in Japan. From extracting and analyzing descriptions from the literature, " Assisting eating that respects patients, " " Improving life rhythm, " and " Intentional touching care " were the main suggested practices identified. No literature was found describing nursing practices related to grief concerning low activity symptoms. However, literature describing nursing practices concerning low activity symptoms (often overlooked) was found. This study can serve as a basis for clarifying nurses' observation perspectives and clinical judgments.
