ResearchPod Summary
Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD)—which include agitation, apathy, aggression, and sleep disturbances—affect up to 90% of patients with dementia. These symptoms are often distressing for both patients and caregivers, leading to increased institutionalization and higher care costs. While psychotropic medications are frequently used to manage these behaviors, they often carry significant side effects. This systematic review evaluates the efficacy of nonpharmacological interventions published between 2005 and 2015 as safer, first-line alternatives.
The authors conducted a systematic review of the Medline and Embase databases, identifying 20 studies that met their inclusion criteria. The review categorized interventions into several modalities: occupational activities, music therapy, aromatherapy, physical exercise, bright light therapy, touch therapy, and cognitive rehabilitation. The analysis focused on how these diverse approaches impacted specific BPSD, particularly agitation.
The review found that nonpharmacological interventions generally provide positive results in reducing BPSD. Key findings include:
Because pharmacological treatments for dementia-related behavioral symptoms often result in cognitive decline and increased mortality, there is an urgent need for evidence-based, non-drug alternatives. This review underscores that personalized, nonpharmacological strategies can effectively manage distressing symptoms while improving the quality of life for both patients and their caregivers. The authors advocate for these interventions to be prioritized as the first line of clinical practice.
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