Behaviours that challenge or behavioural and psychiatric symptoms of dementia (BPSD) are a core part of the syndrome of dementia. They include agitation, aggression, wandering, shouting, repeated questioning, sleep disturbance, depression and psychosis. The symptoms can
cause significant distress and harm to patients and their carers which in turn can mean early institutional care for those exhibiting them.

Medication treatment is associated with its own harms. In this lecture Brian will discuss how effective management requires a balanced approach using good assessment tools, pharmacological and non-pharmacological management.