Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Behavioral Symptoms in Dementia and the Use of Psychotropic Medications
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By
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Jung Min Yoon
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Kwame Kissi-Twum
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Alison M. Trinkoff
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T. Joseph Mattingly
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April 13, 2026
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Clinical Scorecard: Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Behavioral Symptoms in Dementia and the Use of Psychotropic Medications
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD) |
| Key Mechanisms | Increased social isolation and changes in care practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. |
| Target Population | Nursing home residents with dementia. |
| Care Setting | Nursing homes in New York, Utah, and Colorado. |
Key Highlights
- Prevalence of two or more BPSDs increased from 19.0% in 2019 to 20.2% in 2020.
- Depressive symptoms increased by 63% during the pandemic.
- Antipsychotic and sedative use decreased, while antidepressant and antianxiety use remained steady.
- Social isolation due to pandemic restrictions worsened behavioral symptoms.
- Need for enhanced depression screening and mental health support in nursing homes.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Use standardized assessments to identify BPSD in nursing home residents.
Management
- Prioritize individualized non-pharmacologic interventions before pharmacological treatments.
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Regularly assess the prevalence of BPSD and adjust care strategies accordingly.
Risks
- Increased reliance on psychotropic medications may occur due to staffing shortages and care disruptions.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Residents with dementia in nursing homes.
Steady use of antidepressants and antianxiety medications despite overall changes in psychotropic medication use.
Clinical Best Practices
- Implement multidisciplinary collaborative approaches for managing BPSD.
- Ensure adequate nurse staffing for effective assessment and care delivery.
- Facilitate close contact between patients and caregivers to enhance non-pharmacological interventions.
References
