Minimising psychotropic use for behavioural disturbance in residential aged care

BACKGROUND: With the ageing population there will be an increasing number of older Australians who have dementia and require residential care. Up to 90% of people with dementia in residential care show behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD). General practitioners (GPs) have an important role in managing these challenging behaviours. Psychotropic medica-tions, although useful in certain clinical situations, can have significant side effects including increased risk of falls, over-sedation and increased mortality. Non-pharmacological strategies are first-line treatment for BPSDs. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this article is to present the latest evidence in the management of BPSD in residential care. DISCUSSION: GPs can have a crucial role in managing the needs of people with dementia by providing regular reviews and supporting the implementation of simple, evidence-based, non-pharmacological strategies. Language: en