Enrichment Materials

Managing Agitation and Psychosis in Dementia

For researchers, advanced learners, and clinical scholars

Extended Literature Review

Landmark Study: Antipsychotics in Dementia

Schneider LS, et al. Effectiveness of atypical antipsychotic drugs in patients with Alzheimer's disease. N Engl J Med. 2006;355(15):1525-1538.

CATIE-AD trial showing modest efficacy but significant adverse effects, informing the risk-benefit discussion in dementia care.

PubMed PDF
Critical Appraisal Checklist:
  • Randomization adequate?
  • Blinding maintained?
  • Intention-to-treat analysis?
  • Appropriate outcome measures?

DICE Approach Validation

Kales HC, et al. Management of behavioral symptoms in dementia. JAMA. 2015;314(19):2034-2035.

Seminal paper establishing the DICE (Describe, Investigate, Create, Evaluate) framework as standard of care.

PubMed PDF

De-prescribing Evidence

Bjerre LM, et al. Deprescribing antipsychotics for behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia. Can Pharm J. 2018;151(3):159-165.

Systematic review supporting structured tapering approaches and monitoring protocols.

PubMed PDF

Clinical Tools & Calculators

AIMS Scale (Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale)

12-item clinician-rated scale for tardive dyskinesia monitoring. Should be administered every 3-6 months for patients on antipsychotics.

Download AIMS Form

NPI (Neuropsychiatric Inventory)

Comprehensive assessment tool for BPSD severity and caregiver distress across 12 domains.

Download NPI

BEHAVE-AD (Behavioral Pathology in Alzheimer's Disease)

25-item scale specifically designed for dementia-related behavioral symptoms.

Download BEHAVE-AD

Video Demonstrations

Validation Therapy in Practice

Demonstration of entering the patient's reality and validating emotions rather than correcting misperceptions.

The "Bathing Without a Battle" Approach

Person-centered techniques for personal care resistance in dementia—reducing conflict during bathing and hygiene activities.

Teaching Resources

Case Bank

10 additional case vignettes covering:

  • Delirium vs. dementia
  • Pain-related agitation
  • Medication-induced symptoms
  • Sundowning management
  • De-prescribing challenges
Download Case Bank

Family Education Handouts

Patient-friendly materials covering:

  • Understanding BPSD
  • Communication strategies
  • Medication risks explained
  • Safety planning at home
Download Handouts

Assessment Forms

Printable clinical tools:

  • DICE documentation template
  • Environmental assessment checklist
  • Medication monitoring log
  • Tapering schedule calculator
Download Forms

Board-Style Questions

25 assessment questions with detailed rationales covering:

  • Pharmacology
  • Risk management
  • Legal/ethical issues
  • De-prescribing protocols
Download Questions

Related Topics

Topic Connection to BPSD Resource
Delirium Recognition Differentiating from dementia 4AT Test, CAM
Palliative Care in Dementia Comfort-focused approaches ELNEC curriculum
Caregiver Support Reducing burnout, improving outcomes REACH program
Polypharmacy in Elderly Deprescribing, Beers Criteria AGS Guidelines