Behavioral Problems and Dementia

Behavioral problems decrease the quality of life of people with dementia and their care providers. Three main consequences of dementia are functional impairment and, in some cases, also mood disorders and psychosis. These consequences, alone or in combination, result in 3 main behavioral problems: apathy, agitation, and rejection of care/aggression. Nonpharmacologic management strategies include meaningful activities and individualized comfort care, for example, Namaste Care. If needed, pharmacologic management should concentrate on the treatment of main dementia consequences, especially depression, instead of treating secondary symptoms, for example, insomnia. Use of antipsychotics should be minimized, but antipsychotics may be necessary for augmentation of antidepressants.