Staff perceptions of caring for people exhibiting behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia in residential aged care: A cross-sectional survey

Australasian Journal on Ageing published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of AJA Inc. Objectives: To explore the attitudes of direct care staff in residential aged care when interacting with, and responding to, residents exhibiting behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD). Methods: Cross-sectional survey (n = 70). Results: Participants favoured a person-centred approach to their management of residents with BPSD and were aware of the causes of BPSD. There were significant differences between personal care workers’ (PCWs) and enrolled nurses’ (ENs) perceptions of the impact of interpersonal relationships and the physical environment on aggressive behaviours, and between registered nurses and both PCWs and ENs regarding the use of medications for aggressive behaviour and a medical approach to care. Conclusion: The attitudes of participants reflected an awareness of BPSD and its causes. Participants recognised the benefits of a person-centred paradigm, but more education directed towards ENs and PCWs regarding appropriate administration and potential risks of psychotropic medication for BPSD may be beneficial.