The condition can interfere with mobility, bathing, dressing and feeding
The number of people living with dementia is projected to nearly triple by 2050, according to the World Health Organization, and Baycrest researchers say one frequently misunderstood condition affecting that population deserves far more attention.
Researchers and clinicians at Baycrest have contributed to newly published research advancing understanding of paratonia, a common but often underrecognized condition in people living with advanced dementia, the organization said.
The Journal of the American Medical Directors Association (JAMDA) published the papers, which explore the clinical features of paratonia, approaches to recognition and assessment, and considerations tied to research and emerging treatment approaches.
Paratonia causes involuntary muscle resistance during movement and care, Baycrest said.
As dementia progresses, individuals may experience increasing muscle stiffness and posturing that can interfere with mobility, bathing, dressing, feeding and comfort.
The condition may also contribute to pain, skin breakdown and distress during care interactions for both people receiving care and those supporting them.
Clinicians often misunderstand that resistance as purposeful or as behavioural symptoms, according to Baycrest.
The research stresses that paratonia-related resistance is neurological and involuntary rather than intentional, which supports more clinically appropriate and compassionate care.
Paratonia "has significant implications for people living with dementia, families and front-line care teams," said Galit Kleiner, neurologist and researcher at Baycrest and senior author on the publications.
Awareness of the condition remains limited, she said, and better recognition would support more person-centred dementia care.
The publications also discuss investigational treatment approaches, though researchers caution that no treatments are currently approved specifically for paratonia and that further study is needed to understand safety, effectiveness and broader clinical application.
In an accompanying editorial, JAMDA editor-in-chief Paul Katz highlighted the importance of improving awareness and clinical recognition of paratonia in dementia care.
