BPSD
Also written as: BPSD — Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia
Behavioral and psychological symptoms that frequently accompany dementia, including agitation, depression, and psychosis.
Full Definition
Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD) encompass a wide range of non-cognitive manifestations of dementia including agitation, aggression, wandering, sleep disturbances, depression, anxiety, apathy, delusions, and hallucinations. These symptoms affect up to 90% of dementia patients and are often more distressing to caregivers than cognitive symptoms. BPSD can fluctuate over time and may be triggered by pain, infection, medication effects, or environmental factors. Management typically involves non-pharmacological interventions as first-line treatment, with medications reserved for severe cases due to increased mortality risk in elderly patients with dementia.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalized. Spell out on first use in patient-facing materials.
In Context
- "The comprehensive care plan addressed both cognitive decline and emerging BPSD." — Multidisciplinary team meeting notes
- "Non-pharmacological interventions were prioritized for managing BPSD symptoms." — Treatment protocol document