11 April 2015 | Helen C Kales, Laura N Gitlin, Constantine G Lyketsos
The chapter discusses the assessment and management of behavioral and psychological symptoms (BPSD) of dementia, which are common and complex issues affecting nearly all people with dementia. These symptoms, including agitation, depression, apathy, and aggression, can lead to poor health outcomes and increased caregiver stress. The review covers the prevalence, types, causes, and management of BPSD, emphasizing the importance of non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic treatments. It highlights the need for a comprehensive approach that integrates neurobiological, caregiver, and environmental factors. The chapter also reviews the evidence for various interventions, such as physical activity, music therapy, and caregiver support programs, and discusses the limitations and challenges in their implementation. Additionally, it addresses the risks and adverse effects of antipsychotics and other medications used to manage BPSD. The DICE (describe, investigate, create, and evaluate) approach is introduced as a standardized method for assessing and managing these symptoms, aiming to reduce the reliance on psychoactive drugs and improve patient outcomes.The chapter discusses the assessment and management of behavioral and psychological symptoms (BPSD) of dementia, which are common and complex issues affecting nearly all people with dementia. These symptoms, including agitation, depression, apathy, and aggression, can lead to poor health outcomes and increased caregiver stress. The review covers the prevalence, types, causes, and management of BPSD, emphasizing the importance of non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic treatments. It highlights the need for a comprehensive approach that integrates neurobiological, caregiver, and environmental factors. The chapter also reviews the evidence for various interventions, such as physical activity, music therapy, and caregiver support programs, and discusses the limitations and challenges in their implementation. Additionally, it addresses the risks and adverse effects of antipsychotics and other medications used to manage BPSD. The DICE (describe, investigate, create, and evaluate) approach is introduced as a standardized method for assessing and managing these symptoms, aiming to reduce the reliance on psychoactive drugs and improve patient outcomes.