Role of the home visit medical service for patients with behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) living in the community

Background: It is important for patients with behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) in the community, who refuse to go to clinics, to be medically served by means of home visits. However, there are a few clinics in Japan that are specialized in home visits for BPSD. Methods: The home visit medical service provided to several patients with BPSD was reviewed and the strategy for the treatment of BPSD was analyzed. Results: It was found that the medical approach of home visits for patients with BPSD needed to be based on daily life information as well as medical information. Conclusions: The medical service alone is not enough to provide appropriate care for patients with BPSD who are living in the community. Using the case studies presented herein, we have demonstrated the importance of ‘daily life information’ for medical intervention. Issues relating to the exacerbation of BPSD and the cooperation of caregivers in the drug monitoring system at home are also considered.