Alzheimer’s agitation: questions for a loved one’s appointment

Alzheimer’s-related agitation refers to a group of symptoms experienced by many people who have Alzheimer’s disease. These symptoms can include restless motions and behaviors, emotional distress, and aggression. Agitation results from the changes in the brain caused by having Alzheimer’s disease and external factors that trigger an emotional or behavioral response.

Questions for your loved one’s appointment

Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia often impact a person’s ability to communicate, and many people living with these conditions need help from a caregiver when communicating with their healthcare team. Here are some questions you may consider asking your loved one’s healthcare provider about episodes of agitation.

What causes agitation in Alzheimer’s patients?

While the changes to the brain that occur when a person has Alzheimer’s disease are the underlying cause of agitation, episodes of agitation are often brought on by external triggers.

• What are some things that can cause episodes of agitation? What types of situations or triggers should we be looking for?
• Are there any underlying medical conditions that could be causing agitation? Ask about exams and tests that your loved one might need.
• Bring a list of all the medications that your loved one is taking, including over-the-counter medications and supplements. Can agitation be caused by medication side effects or drug interactions?

What are the treatment options for agitation in Alzheimer’s?

Treatment for Alzheimer’s-related agitation can include taking steps to avoid triggers, prevent episodes, and provide support. It can also involve taking medications to help reduce symptoms.

• Are there any modifications or adjustments to the home environment that can help? What kinds of changes can create a more calming environment?
• What other non-medication approaches can be used to help manage agitation?
• Are there any changes or adjustments to my loved one’s medications (taken for Alzheimer’s or other conditions) that might help reduce agitation?
• Are there other healthcare providers or specialists my loved one should be working with? Geriatric psychiatrists, occupational therapists, and speech language therapists are all examples.
• Are there medications that can help reduce agitation? In what circumstances are medications recommended?

Anytime your loved one is prescribed a medication, ask how the medication works, the goals of taking the medication, the potential side effects, and the cost. It’s also critical to understand the dosing schedule and other instructions for dosing.

What should you do during an episode of agitation?

It’s stressful and upsetting to see a loved one in distress. As a caregiver, it can be difficult to know how to respond to a loved one with Alzheimer’s who is in an agitated state. Your loved one’s healthcare providers can help give you guidance.

• What can I do to communicate with my loved one during an episode?
• How can I keep my loved one safe during an episode?
• What can I do to help my loved one calm down during an episode?
• What should I not say or do during an episode? What might unintentionally cause agitation to get worse?
• Are there any warning signs or indications that may suggest the need for immediate medical attention during an episode?

Preparing for your loved one’s appointments

Remember, as a caregiver you are an important source of information for your loved one’s healthcare providers. In addition to going to an appointment prepared with your questions, be prepared to answer the healthcare provider’s questions—in order to provide the best care possible, they will need accurate information about the specific symptoms and behaviors that can be observed during an episode, the frequency of episodes, and how long episodes last.

Also, try to involve your loved one as much as possible. Alzheimer’s disease can make communication difficult, but open communication with your loved one can help them feel more in control at a time when they may be frustrated with loss of independence or their need to rely on others.