It is very common for people with dementia to experience behavioural and psychological symptoms such as aggression and agitation. This leaflet is aimed at people with dementia and their carers who want to know more about behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia and how they can be prevented and treated. It emphasises that people with dementia and their carers have the right
It is very common for people with dementia to experience behavioural and psychological symptoms such as aggression and agitation. This leaflet is aimed at people with dementia and their carers who want to know more about behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia and how they can be prevented and treated. It emphasises that people with dementia and their carers have the right to be involved in decisions about treatment. The leaflet describes a number of simple treatment and therapy options based on the principles of person-centred care that can dramatically improve these symptoms without the need for medication. For many people the symptoms will improve over 4 weeks without the need for medication. If these treatments do not work, the doctor may prescribe antipsychotic drugs. The leaflet provides information about these drugs and their risks and side effects. Suggested questions that can be asked to the doctor are provided.
Subject terms:
older people, person-centred care, psychosocial intervention, antipsychotic medication, challenging behaviour, dementia, drug prescription, good practice, agitation;