Psychiatric management of Alzheimer's focuses on behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD): agitation, depression, psychosis, sleep disturbance. Non-pharmacologic interventions come first; pharmacotherapy is used with caution, avoiding anticholinergic burden and following FDA and APA guidance on antipsychotics in older adults with dementia (black-box warning).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can psychiatric medications help with dementia?
Selectively. SSRIs may reduce depression and agitation. Antipsychotics carry an FDA black-box warning for increased mortality in dementia and are reserved for severe agitation or psychosis after safer options fail — at the lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary duration.
What is BPSD?
Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia — agitation, aggression, depression, apathy, anxiety, delusions, hallucinations, sleep disruption. BPSD affects most patients with Alzheimer's at some point and drives caregiver burden and nursing-home placement.
Do you prescribe cholinesterase inhibitors or memantine?
Dr. Farkas coordinates with neurology on cognitive-specific medications (donepezil, rivastigmine, galantamine, memantine) and focuses her prescribing on psychiatric symptoms and polypharmacy review.
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Alzheimer’s Disease
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Understanding Alzheimer's Disease
Alzheimer's Disease is a treatable psychiatric condition. Professional evaluation and evidence-based treatment improve symptoms and quality of life.
Common Symptoms
Emotional & Psychological
- Persistent worry or fear
- Difficulty concentrating
- Mood changes or instability
- Emotional overwhelm
Physical & Behavioral
- Sleep disturbance
- Fatigue or low energy
- Changes in appetite
- Physical restlessness
How Alzheimer's Disease is Diagnosed
Diagnosis begins with comprehensive clinical evaluation exploring your symptoms, their onset, duration, and functional impact. Dr. Farkas conducts thorough 60-minute assessments using evidence-based diagnostic criteria. This detailed evaluation ensures accurate diagnosis, distinguishes Alzheimer's Disease from similar conditions, and identifies any co-occurring mental health conditions requiring treatment.
Why Choose Dr. Farkas for Alzheimer's Disease Treatment
Expert Psychiatric Care
MD/PhD in neuroscience with specialized expertise in Alzheimer's Disease diagnosis and treatment. Board-certified with extensive clinical experience.
Comprehensive Evaluation
30-60 minute thorough assessments ensuring accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment planning.
Evidence-Based Treatment
Treatment grounded in latest psychiatric research and clinical evidence, tailored to your unique needs.
Ongoing Support
Regular monitoring and medication management ensuring optimal treatment response and symptom management.
Ready to Start Treatment for Alzheimer's Disease?
Expert psychiatric care begins with a comprehensive evaluation. Dr. Gabriella Farkas provides compassionate, evidence-based treatment helping you achieve lasting symptom relief.
Call (917) 267-9678 for Your ConsultationNext Steps
Schedule Your Evaluation
Contact Dr. Farkas to schedule your comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. New patient appointments typically available within 2-4 weeks. During your first appointment, Dr. Farkas will:
- Conduct thorough symptom and history assessment
- Perform comprehensive psychiatric evaluation
- Discuss treatment options and develop personalized care plan
- Answer questions and address your concerns
Treatment Options
Based on your evaluation, Dr. Farkas discusses treatment options including psychiatric medication, therapy referral, or combined treatment. All recommendations explained clearly, with your preferences and values incorporated into decision-making.
Ongoing Care
Once treatment initiated, regular follow-up appointments monitor your response, manage medications, assess side effects, and adjust treatment as needed. You have ongoing psychiatric support throughout your treatment.
Evidence-Based Resources
Learn more from authoritative sources:
National Institute of Mental Health American Psychiatric Association National Alliance on Mental Illness
Privacy & Confidentiality: Dr. Farkas's practice is fully HIPAA-compliant. Your health information is protected with the highest standards of confidentiality and security.