42 - What Are Appropriate Palliative Interventions for Patients With Advanced Dementia?

Abstract

Palliative care for individuals with advanced dementia requires a multifaceted approach that may span different health systems with the need to address multiple comorbidities. This chapter discusses key interventions including early and dementia-specific advance care planning; hospice enrollment for individuals with end-stage dementia; caregiver support through comprehensive care models; management of symptoms such as pain and dementia-related behaviors using interventions based on patient, caregiver, and environmental factors; and avoidance of burdensome and potentially goal-discordant treatments.