Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia: A current focus for clinicians, researchers, and caregivers

Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia are an important aspect o f dementing illness. They represent a growing burden to caregivers and heal th care institutions and an increasing financial burden as the proportion o f elderly patients, and consequently those with dementia, increases through out the world. Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia can be rec ognized and assessed using a number of rating scales. Management of the sym ptoms is then possible for the benefit of patients, family members, caregiv ers, and the health care system.