• Nur Sabiha Md Hussin, Mahmathi Karuppannan, Yogheswaran Gopalan, Kit Mun Tan, and Shubashini Gnanasan.
• Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Teknologi MARA Cawangan Selangor, Selangor, Malaysia.
• Singap Med J. 2023 Aug 1; 64 (8): 497502497-502.

IntroductionBehavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) are considered integral parts of dementia. While pharmacotherapy is reserved for severe symptoms of BPSD, the associated adverse effects can be detrimental. Therefore, non-pharmacological intervention is recommended as the first line of treatment in the management of BPSD. This study aimed to explore the non-pharmacological approaches for the management of BPSD and the strategies and barriers to implementing them in secondary care facilities in Malaysia.MethodsA qualitative study design was employed. Data were collected through observations and semi-structured interviews of 12 caregivers and 11 people with dementia (PWD) at seven secondary care facilities. Observations were written in the field notes, and interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. All data were subjected to thematic analysis.ResultsSome personalised non-pharmacological interventions, such as physical exercise, music therapy, reminiscence therapy and pet therapy, were conducted in several nursing care centres. Collaborative care from the care providers and family members was found to be an important facilitating factor. The lack of family support led to care providers carrying additional workload beyond their job scope. Other barriers to non-pharmacological interventions were cultural and language differences between the care providers and PWD, inadequate staff numbers and training, and time constraints.ConclusionAlthough non-pharmacological approaches have been used to some extent in Malaysia, continuous education and training of healthcare providers and the family members of PWD is needed to overcome the challenges to their successful implementation.

7 keywords...

hide…