Relieving Caregiver Burden Through Evidence-Based Treatment for Dementia-Related Psychosis.

Ballard, Clive; Aarsland, Dag

Dementia-related psychosis (DRP), which includes delusions and hallucinations, contributes to patient and caregiver burden of dementia. Delusions and hallucinations occur in all forms of dementia and at all stages. Certain tactics should be used when talking with patients and their care partners, and some evidence can be shared that may relieve some of the distress of DRP. When treating symptoms of DRP, clinicians should follow guidelines recommendations, such as using medication only if the patient or others are in severe distress or danger and starting with low doses. Long-term treatment is not recommended. Novel antipsychotics or alternative agents may offer superior efficacy and safety compared with standard atypical antipsychotics, but more evidence-based treatment options are needed.