Non-cognitive symptoms of dementia, such as agitation, depression, anxiety, hallucinations, sleep disturbances, and aggression (both verbal and physical), require a comprehensive approach to manage effectively. This approach mainly includes non-pharmacological strategies, but in some cases, medication may also be necessary. When appropriate, combining both methods together can greatly improve the person’s quality of life.
Important First Step
Before beginning treatment, it’s essential to arrange a medical review to rule out any potential medical causes (such as delirium).
Comprehensive Assessment:
A detailed biopsychosocial assessment (which you can read more about in the section on Assessments for NCSD) should be carried out by a qualified healthcare professional.
Next Steps:
For further guidance, refer to the detailed sections on non-pharmacological interventions and pharmacological treatments for managing non-cognitive symptoms of dementia: