Dementias are the most common neurodegenerative conditions in human beings. As we age, the incidence and prevalence of dementias increase. Currently in the United States, there are over 5 million individuals with dementias. This number is projected to rise to over 11 million over the next thirty years. Despite emerging data on various important aspects of dementia, the diagnosis and management of these disorders is not standardized. The data on the management dementias is still limited with none of the pharmacotherapeutic agents available in the market showing any longer-term benefits. Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD) refers to a group of non-cognitive symptoms and behaviors that occur commonly in patients with dementia. They result from a complex interplay between various biological, psychological and social factors involved in the disease process. BPSD is associated with increased caregiver burden, institutionalization, a more rapid decline in cognition and function and overall poorer quality of life. It also adds to the direct and indirect costs of caring for patients with dementia. Available data indicate efficacy for some non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatment modalities for BPSD. However, recently the use of psychotropic medications for the treatment of BPSD has generated controversy due to increased recognition of their serious adverse effects. In this symposium, we will discuss the epidemiology, neurobiology, assessment and management of individuals with BPSD. We will also provide an evidence-based guideline to assess and manage BPSD. Finally, we will elaborate on the controversies in the treatment of individuals with BPSD.
Format
Recorded webinar, non-interactive, self-paced distance learning activity.
This presentation was recorded at the 2024 American Psychiatric Association Annual Meeting.
Learning Objectives
- To describe the epidemiology of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia
- To elucidate the neurobiology and assessment of individuals with behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia
- To discuss the management of individuals with behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia
- To elaborate on the controversies in the treatment of individuals with behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia
Target Audience
Medical Students, Residents/Fellows, Psychiatrists
Estimated Time to Complete
Estimated Duration: 1.5 hours
Begin Date: September 1, 2025
End Date: September 1, 2028
How to Earn Credit
Participants who wish to earn 1.5 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit ™ or a certificate of participation may do so by completing all sections of the course including the evaluation. After evaluating the program, course participants will be provided with an opportunity to claim hours of participation and print an official CME certificate (physicians) or certificate of participation (non-physicians) showing the event date and hours earned.
Continuing Education Credit
In support of improving patient care, the American Psychiatric Association is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.
Physicians
The APA designates this enduring activity for a maximum of 1.5 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit ™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
Faculty and Planner Disclosures
The American Psychiatric Association adheres to the ACCME’s Standards for Integrity and Independence in Accredited Continuing Medical Education. Any individuals in a position to control the content of a CME activity — including faculty, planners, reviewers or others — are required to disclose all relevant financial relationships with ineligible entities (commercial interests). All relevant conflicts of interest have been mitigated prior to the commencement of the activity.
Program Presenters
- Rajesh Tampi, MD, MS, DFAPA, DFAAGP
- Pallavi Joshi, DO, MA
- Shilpa Srinivasan, MD, DFAPA, DFAAGP
Program Planners
- Vishal Madaan, MD. Chief of Education and Deputy Medical Director, APA.
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