Dementia Behavior Management

Behavioral disturbances and agitation can be among the most distressing symptoms of dementia, affecting the safety and well-being of both the patient and caregivers. While non-pharmacologic approaches are always first-line management, behavioral disturbances may be profound enough to demand pharmacologic management to allow a patient to remain at home. This case illustrates the role of the interdisciplinary home-based medical care team, the importance of educating family and paid caregivers, indications to consider initiation of pharmacologic therapy, and various therapeutic options that may be considered by providers.