Introduction

The management of patients with dementia should be a patient-centred, multi-disciplinary approach, utilising pharmaceuticals and supportive strategies to minimise distress and maximise the activities of patient and carer.

Treatments can aim to improve the cognitive impairment and the behavioural changes associated with dementia.

The emergency physician should have an understanding of these interventions in order to pragmatically evaluate such patients during acute medical or social crises.