Need-driven dementia compromised behavior theory and health belief model: a theory critique

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to critique and evaluate need-driven dementia compromised behavior theory and the health behavioral model using Meleis’ (2010) criteria of theory evaluation. Design/methodology/approach Theory critique using Meleis’ (2010) criteria of theory evaluation. Findings This paper provides a conclusion about each theory in terms of agitation in the elderly. Meleis’s (2010) criteria will be used for both theories to evaluate different components such as the relationship between structure and function, diagram of the theory, circle of the contagiousness, usefulness and external components. Originality/value The critique of the two theories broadened the nurses’ understanding of the connection between the NDB model and the behavior symptoms, including agitation and its related issues. Further studies need to be conducted to shed light on the other aspects of the behavioral symptoms in elderly with dementia that supports the results of this study, like its specific causes, trigger factors and other intervention strategies. Nurses should be able not only to understand the patient’s behavior symptoms but also to decode them into communication signals to meet their needs in a more effective way.