Many patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) demonstrate disruptive behaviors that are distressing to themselves and to their caregivers. This article will examine how to use a behavioral approach to help manage such behaviors. The approach is based on four steps involving the clinician and the caregiver:
• Analysis of the behavior
• Identification of behavioral strategies
• Choice and implementation of a behavioral intervention
• Evaluation followed by modification of the plan as required.
A synopsis of available behavioral strategies are included here to help the clinician discuss alternatives with caregivers.
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