THE CLINICAL MANAGEMENT OF HIV-RELATED DEMENTIA AND OTHER MEMORY DISORDERS IN THE RESIDENTIAL DRUG-TREATMENT ENVIRONMENT

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-related dementia and other memory a nd attention disorders are described in terms of etiology, incidence, and symptoms. Assessment for cognitive impairment includes basic scree ning (examples are given), or a thorough neuropsychological evaluation . Implications for treatment within the residential drug treatment env ironment include: (a) providing accurate information to staff and resi dents; (b) identifying residents' anticipatory anxiety; (c) supportive counseling of residents; (d) coaching residents in the use of coping strategies; (e) creating environmental support; and (f) frequent reass essment of treatment goals, including the appropriateness of independe nt living. Helpful concrete suggestions are listed.