[The course of behavior disorders and their psychosocial treatment in patients with dementia].

Behavioural symptoms are not crucial for a valid diagnosis of dementia. However, these symptoms are important determinants of the burden of caregivers and strongly predict premature nursing home placement. Agitation, apathy, and depression are most prevalent, whereas aggressive behaviour, delusions and hallucinations are less frequent. Among the behavioural symptoms of dementia agitation is the most persistent problem. Psychosocial treatment basically requests a constant and empathetic relationship between therapist and patient or caregiver. Recent studies have demonstrated that specific treatment interventions are effective in reducing behavioural symptoms, such as agitation, apathy, and depression. Psychoeducative strategies in the support of caregivers may be effective in reducing behavioural symptoms of the demented patients in daily living.