Work

Calling for family-sensitive and multidisciplinary approaches at all levels of care

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Psychotic symptoms and other neuropsychiatric manifestations in dementia are distressing conditions that deeply affect patients, carers, and staff. Low awareness and doubts about the competence of primary care services to intervene contribute to underdiagnosis and suboptimal management. We critically discuss what may and may not be done in primary care, building on the case of a 79-year-old man with dementia who developed Capgras delusion (a typical misidentification syndrome), believing his wife was replaced by impostors. We highlight diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, discussing practical advice potentially applicable in many other neuropsychiatric conditions. Referrals to specialists are needed but continuity of care and a family-sensitive practice remain crucial (this patient's symptoms and his wife's distress seemed to enhance each other in circular manners). Primary care is pivotal in relation-centred dementia management, to help address the biopsychosocial needs of patient and carers. A multidisciplinary, task-sharing approach may improve dementia care, particularly in resource-limited settings.

Source: Portuguese National Funding Agency for Science, Research and Technology (RCAAP Project by FCT)

Authors: Fournier, Marta, Gonçalves-Pereira, Manuel

Language: English

Topic: Dementia and Cognitive Impairment Research

Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

OpenAlex ID: W7130276485

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