neurologic disorders
Behavioral and Psychologic Symptoms of Dementia
Key Points
What constitutes disruptive behavior is subjective and variable, yet behavioral disturbances are the reason for up to 50% of nursing home admissions. Behavior often deteriorates when patients are moved from their familiar home environment. Behavioral disturbances may be triggered by a physical problem that the patient cannot communicate. Categorize behavioral disturbances using the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory. Recognize signs of depression, such as abrupt changes in cognition, decreased appetite, deterioration in mood, a change in sleep pattern (often hypersomnolence), withdrawal, decreased activity level, crying spells, and talk of death and dying, and be alert for sudden development of irritability or psychotic behavior. Treat using environmental measures, avoiding medications when possible. 