Nonpharmacological management of behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia

Based on patient assessment, create an individualised behavioural management plan considering the patient’s preferences and goals of care. If the patient is unable to participate in the planning, review their advance care management plan and consult with their substitute decision-maker.

Adapting the patient’s environment, routine and activity can assist in preventing and treating behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia. Consider whether respite care may help carer stress.

A graphic to support nonpharmacological management has been created by NPS MedicineWise and is available here. For comprehensive advice on nonpharmacological prevention and management of behavioural and psychological symptoms, see:

Avoid using physical restraint to manage behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia—it usually adds to the patient’s distress and disorientation.

Dementia Behaviour Management Advisory Service (DBMAS) has a 24-hour helpline (1800 699 799) that provides:

  • expert advice and support to staff and carers, family and significant others of people with challenging behaviour of dementia in the community and in acute, primary care or residential aged-care settings
  • access to Severe Behaviour Response Teams (SBRT)—mobile teams of dementia experts providing services for people with dementia who are experiencing severe behaviours or psychological symptoms of dementia in selected residential aged-care facilities, multipurpose services or flexibly funded services.

If behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia place the patient or others at risk of harm, also see Pharmacological management of behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia. Referral to the Specialist Dementia Care Program (SDCP) may be appropriate until symptoms have reduced or stabilised.