End-Stage Dementia: Aminoff Suffering Syndrome and Relief of Suffering Units

Aminoff suffering syndrome (ASS) in advanced dementia is the new proposed term for a pathological symptomatology and entity that is characterized by a high Mini Suffering State Examination (MSSE) scale score, <6 months survival, irreversible and intractable aggravation of suffering and medical condition until demise. This paper proffers a new, alternative approach and setting for end-stage dementia (ESD) patients with ASS that could pertain to the Israeli setting, and could possibly also be applicable in other countries. Short hospitalization periods of approximately 1 month, and treatment in Relief of Suffering Units may be a new, palliative approach and present a possible solution for coping with the horrendous burden of the anguish of end-of-life dementia patients, their families, and the medical and nursing staff.