Behavioural and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia
Persons with dementia are often presented with changes to personality, behavior and mood which are known as behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD). When left untreated, these symptoms can accelerate functional decline and reduce quality of life.
It is important to know there are always reasons why a person with dementia shows various symptoms.
Generally, BPSD symptoms can be managed by using to the ABC approach:
A - ANTECEDENTS
Always try to look for the triggering factors and work to remove the source. Otherwise, caregivers will have to deal with the same situation again.
Possible causes of BPSD
- Psychological factors (anxiety, anger, etc.)
- Problems with surrounding activities (chaotic, confusing etc.)
- Physical condition (constipation, dehydration, hunger, pain, itch, fever, etc.)
- The side-effects of medications
- Environment (noisy, unfamiliar, unpleasant odour, etc.)
B - BEHAVIOUR
If the cause of BPSD could not be identified, care should then be focused on finding ways to handle the behavior. Record its behavior, frequency and intensity to help determine ways to manage.
C- CONSEQUENCES
To consider whether the behavior can bring harm to the person with dementia, the caregivers or to the people around them and whether it needs to be addressed.
Note :
Not all behavior requires intervention especially if it is neither harming the persons with dementia or the caregivers.
Behavioral changes especially if appears suddenly, are a signal for a thorough medical evaluation. Family members/caregivers who are in close contact with the person with dementia can discuss this with a doctor or nursing staff or other healthcare professionals, to share your observations and to help provide a solution.
To care for those who once cared for us is one of the highest honors
– Tia Walker –
– Tia Walker –
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