Question

A 70-year-old man in residential care has moderate Alzheimer's dementia and is increasingly agitated in the late afternoon, wandering and trying to leave the facility. Staff request "something to calm him down". There is no evidence of pain, infection or delirium. What is the most appropriate first-line management?

Accepted Answer

Implement non-pharmacological behavioural and environmental strategies tailored to his needs

Answer

Commence regular low-dose risperidone

Answer

Increase environmental stimulation and television in the evenings

Answer

Start benzodiazepine at night

Answer

Physically restrain him during the evening period

Practice question