Management of Behavioural Symptoms of Dementia

In this course, geriatric psychiatrist Dr. Parnika Saxena, MD (Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, School of Medicine), introduces a clinically grounded framework for understanding and managing behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD). The course clarifies what dementia is (and is not), outlines common BPSD presentations and differentials, and provides a structured approach to assessment that helps clinicians distinguish BPSD from overlapping syndromes such as depression, bipolar spectrum presentations, psychosis, sleep disorders, and delirium-related changes. Dr. Saxena then translates theory into real-world application through a multidisciplinary lens – covering environmental and caregiver-centred strategies, communication approaches, and careful medication considerations – so clinicians can reduce distress, improve safety, and support both the person with dementia and the caregiver unit.