Behavior management planning for problem behaviors in dementia: A practical model

Psychologists are often sought out by families or nursing home staff to dev elop intervention strategies for behavior problems in dementia patients. Th is article describes a systematic approach, or practical model, for develop ing these strategies. Variables that may contribute to behavior problems in clude comfort needs, assaultiveness, anger, patient's perceptions, activity involvement, triggers, patterns of escalation, personal history, caregiver interaction styles, and level of cognitive functioning. Each variable of t his model is described in terms of key team members, relevant team dynamics , assessment, and intervention strategies.