Dementia-Related Behavioral Disturbance Treatment in California

We treat dementia-related behaviors by telehealth anywhere in California. Your provider is board certified and speaks English, Punjabi, Hindi and Spanish.

When a loved one with dementia becomes agitated, aggressive, suspicious or restless at sundown, families are often left without guidance. These behavioral symptoms of dementia (BPSD) are medical symptoms. Managing them well protects the dignity, safety and quality of life of everyone involved.

This is a core focus at Mindful Sewa Psychiatry. Harpal Singh, PMHNP-BC, has deep experience in memory care and assisted living, as well as long-term care. He offers dementia behavioral treatment by telehealth anywhere in California, for families and facilities alike.

Behavior changes in dementia are a form of communication. A person who can no longer find the words may show pain, fear, boredom or confusion through pacing, yelling or refusing care. Seeing the behavior as a message, not a choice, is the first step toward calmer days.

These symptoms affect most people with dementia at some point. They are often the hardest part for families, and one of the main reasons for a move to memory care. Thoughtful psychiatric support early can ease stress for the person and the people who love them.

Good care can also help a person stay in their current home or facility longer. It can mean fewer crises and fewer trips to the emergency room.

Signs and Symptoms of Dementia-Related Behaviors

• Agitation, pacing or restlessness
• Aggression or pushing back against care
• Sundowning, or more confusion in the evening
• Suspicion, blame or paranoia
• Seeing or hearing things, or false beliefs
• Sleeping by day and awake at night
• Asking the same question or calling out again and again
• Depression or apathy alongside dementia

How We Treat Dementia-Related Behaviors by Telehealth

Good care starts with detective work. Pain, infection, medicine side effects and things in the setting cause many behavior changes. These must be ruled out first.

Then we use non-drug steps first. We add careful medication management only when behaviors threaten safety or well-being. Any medicine is kept to the lowest amount that works and is reviewed often. Your prescriber decides what fits.

We work closely with family caregivers and facility staff. We also understand the rules for psychiatric medicines in long-term care settings.

Common Triggers Behind Dementia Behaviors

Many behaviors have a hidden cause. Pain, constipation and urinary infections are common triggers, along with poor sleep, hunger and thirst. So are new medicines, hearing or vision loss and sudden illness. A sudden change in behavior should always prompt a medical check.

The setting matters too. Loud rooms, too many people, rushed bathing and changes in routine or caregivers can all spark distress. Even a new room or a new furniture layout can make a person feel lost.

A simple behavior log helps. Write down what happened, the time, who was there and what came right before. Patterns often show up within a week or two and point to practical fixes.

Non-Drug Approaches Families Can Try

Start with connection. Approach from the front, speak slowly and use short, simple sentences. Offer two choices instead of open questions. Agree with feelings instead of arguing about facts.

Redirect gently. If a loved one is upset about going home, talk about home, then move to a snack, music or a short walk. Familiar music and meaningful tasks, like folding towels or looking at photos, can calm and occupy.

Protect sleep and daylight. Morning light, daytime activity, fewer naps and a quiet evening routine can help. Limit caffeine later in the day, and keep lighting soft but not dark at night.

When Medication Is Considered

Medicine may be considered when a person is at risk of harming themselves or others, or is deeply distressed despite good non-drug care. The goal is comfort and safety, not sedation.

Options may include medicines for depression, sleep or anxiety, and in some cases antipsychotics. Antipsychotics carry an FDA boxed warning about a higher risk of death in older adults with dementia-related psychosis. So they are used with care, kept low and reviewed often for a chance to reduce or stop them. Your prescriber decides based on the person's full health picture.

Families are part of these decisions. You will hear the possible benefits and risks in plain language, and you can ask questions before anything changes.

Caring for the Caregiver

Caregiver stress is real and common. Exhaustion, guilt and grief can build slowly. Asking for help, using respite care and joining a caregiver support group are signs of strength, not failure.

Harpal Singh, PMHNP-BC, sees patients by telehealth from anywhere in California, whether at home or in a facility. He offers care directly in English, Punjabi, Hindi and Spanish. Learn more about our geriatric psychiatry services.

Visits usually include the family caregiver or facility nurse, who knows the daily pattern best. Together you set one or two clear goals, such as a calmer bath time or better sleep. Then you review what changed at the next visit. Small wins add up and make each day easier for everyone.

What to Expect at Your First Appointment

Visits are by video and usually include the family caregiver or facility nurse. We review the behavior pattern, health history and current medicines. Then you get a clear, step-by-step plan, including what to try tonight.

Ready to start? Book a comprehensive evaluation, review our transparent fees, or take the symptoms quiz first.

Services for Dementia-Related Behaviors

• Psychiatric Evaluation
• Medication Management
• Geriatric Psychiatry

Related Reading

Articles from our provider on dementia-related behaviors and related topics.

• Haloperidol Side Effects: A Guide for Patients and Families
• Depression in Older Adults: Why It Gets Missed So Often