In patients with vascular cognitive impairment (VCI), behaviour changes — such as agitation or other distressing or disruptive symptoms — represent a specific and important clinical presentation. Identifying these changes requires structured screening, including interviews with the individual, family members, and members of the healthcare team.
The recommended approach begins by investigating and treating any underlying causes of the behaviour change. When those have been addressed, the first-line management strategy is non-pharmacological in nature. The specific strategies applied depend on the individual's presentation and degree of VCI — the full clinical protocol details which interventions are indicated and in what sequence.
Individuals with known or suspected VCI should be screened for behaviour changes that may cause distress or disruption, including through interviews with the individual, family members and members of their healthcare team.
For individuals demonstrating new behavioural changes, investigating and treating potential underlying causes should be undertaken (e.g., pain or presence of a urinary tract infection as underlying causes).
Non-pharmacological strategies should be considered as first-line management of an individual with VCI who is displaying behaviour changes.
View source ↗