Psychobehavioral therapy refers to the use of behavioral and psychological therapies. Several therapies are used. Especially in the early stage of Alzheimer's disease, psychotherapy may be helpful for the individual with AD. Therapy can help the person cope emotionally with accepting the illness and with other problems, such as depression. Most commonly, psychobehavioral therapy involves strategies used by caregivers to manage problem behaviors.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) gradually steals important abilities from its sufferers. As fewer and fewer skills remain, others find it necessary to provide more and more supports and ultimately, controls, to ensure the best quality life and safety for the person with AD. Some behavioral problems may represent attempts to communicate distress individuals are experiencing but can no longer describe in words. It is best not to assume a behavior necessarily means what it seems to mean or that the person can understand or control the behavior. Sometimes unpleasant symptoms (constipation) or serious medical problems (fever and infection) may produce unexpected behaviors such as grimacing or clinging. At other times, changes in the environment, such as too much or too little noise or activity, may provoke behaviors that are difficult. Remaining alert to possible unexpected meanings of behaviors and being flexible in managing them is challenging but rewarding. Often one must first manage or control a behavior. Later, evaluating the sequence of events that preceded the behavior may help caregivers anticipate future difficulties so that problems can be deflected or prevented.

Psychobehavioral strategies vary with each individual and as the disease progresses. In the early stages of AD, memory aids are helpful. Large clocks and calendars, lists of daily plans, simplifying tasks and having written directions on how to use common household items can help with day-to-day living. As the disease progresses, there are strategies to make bathing, eating and other routines easier. These are only a few examples from many helpful behavioral management approaches. In their publications and on their web site, the Alzheimer's Association provides guidelines for handling difficult behavior problems. Also, there are many books dealing with management of behaviors, please see our reading list.

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