Effect of need-based care on behavioural and psychological symptoms in residents with dementia and formal caregivers’ distress in nursing homes: a three-arm cluster randomized controlled trial

Key summary points Aim To evaluate to what extent the standardized concept of need-based care on Behavioural and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD), and formal caregiver distress, is superior when compared to spending more time or standard care with residents with BPSD. Findings Need-based interventions had a significant effect on residents’ levels of pain behaviour. In the need-based care group, scores on overall BPSD (agitation and aggression, depression, euphoria, irritability, sleep and night-time behaviour) improved significantly from baseline when compared to other timepoints. Message Tailored non-pharmacological interventions in the residential care for people with dementia reduce the level of BPSD and formal caregivers’ distress.