Success and failure in five case studies: Used of cued recall to ameliorate behaviour problems in senile dementia

Four patients suffering dementing illnesses and presenting management difficulties were taught the association between either a cue and a behaviour, or a cue and information affecting behaviour. On subsequently encountering the cue in the environment, targeted problem behaviour. On subsequently encourtering the cue in the environment, targeted problem behaviours diminished to manageable levels, were modified, or ceased. Problemes were: obsessive demands, inappropriate urinating and intrusive aggressive behaviour. The technique failed with a fifth patient, who shouted constantly. Theoretical and clinical aspects of the interventions and the teaching method (repeated retrieval trials) are discussed.