Guidelines for psychologists working with dementia care nursing staff

Abstract

There is an increasing emphasis on the use of behavioral techniques to manage problem behaviors in people suffering from a dementing illness. The need to involve psychologists with an expertise in behavioral management techniques is becoming more apparent. Despite this need psychologists are often not involved as a part of the dementia management team. Differences between nursing staff who are often the core of the dementia management team, and psychologists may pose a barrier to psychologists who might practice in this area. Important differences include background, expectations, knowledge base, and perspectives on providing treatment. A mutual awareness and handling of these issues is critical to the successful incorporation of the psychologist into the dementia management team.