The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services launched a new initiative aimed at improving behavioral health and safeguarding older adults residing in nursing homes from unnecessary antipsychotic drug use. This article is part two of a four-part series on how caregivers working with older adults can implement nonpharmacological interventions. Many different types of nonpharmacological interventions exist, including staff techniques, communication skills, the identification of basic and medical needs, and actual activities, which may be performed alone, one-on-one, or in small groups. To implement nonpharmacological interventions, a trusting relationship must be established. What is done, what is not done, and how one behaves can all precipitate or prevent agitation, anxiety, depression, and apathy in older adults. This article will address the trusting relationship concept that must be actualized for nonpharmacological interventions to be successful.
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