Public Health

Area of Science:

• Geriatrics
• Primary Care Medicine
• Dementia Care

Background:

• Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) are common in persons living with dementia (PLWD) and negatively impact quality of life.
• Primary care clinicians (PCPs) often lack the expertise to effectively manage BPSD.
• The DETAILD intervention aims to improve BPSD recognition and management in primary care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify challenges faced by primary care clinicians in managing BPSD and adopting the DETAILD approach.
• To understand barriers and facilitators to implementing dementia care strategies in primary care settings.

Main Methods:

• Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 primary care clinicians.
• Interviews explored experiences with BPSD management and the DETAILD intervention.
• Qualitative analysis used inductive and deductive approaches guided by the RE-AIM/PRISM framework.

Main Results:

• Key themes included the need for improved care planning, family support, and understanding household dynamics.
• Clinicians without DETAILD training identified lack of diagnosis and patient trust as barriers.
• Patient and family participation in consultations was seen as beneficial.

Conclusions:

• Primary care clinicians encounter significant barriers in managing BPSD.
• Adaptations to the DETAILD intervention are needed to enhance participation and impact.
• Improving BPSD management in primary care can enhance the quality of life for PLWD and their caregivers.