BPSD – How to Understand, Support, and Care for People with Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia
What is BPSD?
BPSD stands for Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia. These symptoms may include anxiety, aggression, shouting, hallucinations, wandering, sleep disturbances, or apathy — affecting over 90% of people with dementia at some point during their illness. These symptoms impact not only the person with dementia but also their relatives and care staff.
In Sweden, a special quality register called the BPSD Register is used within healthcare to map, understand, and prevent these symptoms using non-pharmacological methods — meaning adjustments in environment, approach, and daily routines rather than medication.
Why Does BPSD Occur?
BPSD symptoms often arise as a reaction to environmental factors such as stress, pain, loneliness, insecurity, or lack of stimulation. Since people with dementia may struggle to express themselves verbally, their discomfort often shows through behavior. In other words, BPSD is a form of communication expressing unmet needs.
How is BPSD Managed in Practice?
The BPSD Register follows a systematic approach where caregivers or relatives identify symptoms and then explore possible causes. Common steps include:
- Behavior observation: When, where, and how does it occur?
- Teamwork: Collaboration between different healthcare professionals to understand the situation.
- Individualized measures: Environmental adaptations, routines, and assistive devices.
- Follow-up: What worked? What needs adjustment?
This structured method helps reduce symptoms without relying primarily on medication.
Important Principles for Interaction
When caring for someone with BPSD, the approach is crucial. Key principles include:
- Stay calm and patient — stress is contagious.
- Acknowledge feelings, even if the story is confusing.
- Avoid arguing — instead, join the person’s reality.
- Use reassuring body language and tone of voice.
- Pay attention to non-verbal cues — the body often speaks when words fail.
Environmental Adaptations to Reduce Anxiety and Confusion
The environment strongly influences dementia-related behaviors. Unfamiliar, cluttered, or overstimulating surroundings may trigger symptoms. Tips include:
- Clear lighting to reduce shadows and confusion.
- Color coding for guidance, such as colored toilet seats or doors.
- Calm sound environment — avoid unnecessary background noise.
- Simple, functional furniture with recognizable objects.
- Digital aids like alarms or reminder clocks for added security.
Assistive Devices That Support People with BPSD
Several aids can ease daily life and create safety for individuals with BPSD:
- Non-slip socks (grippy socks) to reduce fall risk during agitation or wandering.
- Support handles near toilets and beds to aid safe transfers.
- Walking aids such as rollators with trays to reduce stressful lifting.
- Easy-to-use nightlights or motion sensors to increase nighttime safety.
- Emergency alarms for quick assistance during distress.
- Noise-cancelling headphones or music players with calming music to reduce anxiety.
Communication – The Key to Safety
People with BPSD often have difficulty expressing emotions, making alternative communication crucial:
- Speak slowly and clearly.
- Ask simple yes/no questions.
- Use pictures or symbols for routines and needs.
- Repeat calmly when necessary without showing irritation.
- Touch and eye contact can sometimes say more than words.
Tips for Relatives and Caregivers
Managing BPSD requires patience, but small changes can have a big impact:
- For relatives: Try to understand what the symptoms communicate — anger might signal pain, anxiety might mean hunger.
- For care staff: Document changes, collaborate as a team, and don’t hesitate to try new strategies.
- For both: Create structure, safety, and predictability in daily life.
When Are Medications Necessary?
Medications should only be used when non-pharmacological methods are insufficient and symptoms are severe. The BPSD Register ensures medication is a last resort, aiming to find the root cause of behaviors rather than just suppressing symptoms.
How We at Ramlainte.se Can Help
At Ramlainte.se, we offer a wide range of assistive devices specially adapted for people with dementia and BPSD, including:
- Products for a safer home environment
- Ergonomic aids for mobility and hygiene
- Safety solutions for anxiety, wandering, and nighttime care
- Free expert advice from licensed occupational therapists and physicians
We are passionate about creating safer and more independent everyday lives — for both people with dementia and their loved ones.
Conclusion – Understanding Creates Safety
BPSD is not a problem to “fix” but a way of expressing a need that must be understood. With the right knowledge, adapted environment, good communication, and respectful care, we can make a meaningful difference every day.
Want to Learn More About Assistive Devices for People with BPSD?
Contact us at Ramlainte.se for a free consultation. We help you find the right solutions tailored to your needs.
