How can Alzheimer’s-related agitation be treated?

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia among older adults. Dementia refers to a group of conditions that cause damage and changes in the brain, impairing how the brain functions. This can lead to different symptoms depending on the type of dementia, but often includes difficulty with memory, communication, and other types of cognitive function.

Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia can also cause psychological, emotional, and behavioral changes. One example is agitation.

Alzheimer’s-related agitation

Agitation is characterized by restlessness, irritability, and emotional distress. The exact ways in which these symptoms present can vary from one person to the next.

While the changes in the brain caused by Alzheimer’s disease are the underlying cause of agitation, episodes of agitation are often triggered by specific events or circumstances that cause a person to become agitated. For example, a person may become agitated when they are in an unfamiliar environment, when they are hungry or tired, or when they are frustrated with themselves for not being able to remember something or perform a task that used to be part of everyday life.

An important first step in managing agitation is identifying what is causing agitation. Caregivers play an important role in describing the symptoms a person is experiencing and the circumstances where these symptoms occur.

Agitation can also occur as a side effect of medications and occur as a result of underlying medical conditions—and both are important topics to discuss with a loved one’s healthcare provider.

Treatment for Alzheimer’s-related agitation

There is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, though there are a few medications that may help improve cognitive functioning for some people (though not everyone) and may not be useful at later stages of the disease.

Treatment for Alzheimer’s disease mainly focuses on addressing symptoms and improving quality of life. If a person is experiencing behavioral symptoms like agitation, a treatment plan should include steps to address those symptoms.

Approaches to treating agitation fall into two broad categories—medications and non-medication approaches. Treatment may involve a combination of both.

Non-medication treatments for Alzheimer’s-related agitation

Treatment for agitation typically begins with non-pharmacological approaches, which can include:

• Create a calm environment. Minimize noise, reduce clutter, and ensure a safe and familiar space for the person with Alzheimer's disease. Identify and minimize factors that may contribute to agitation, such as loud noises, bright lights, or certain activities that may be overwhelming.
• Establish daily routines. Stick to a predictable schedule for daily activities, including meals, exercise, and rest.
• Be reassuring. Offer comforting words, maintain eye contact, and use gentle touch when communicating.
• Engage in activities. Encourage participation in activities that promote relaxation, such as listening to calming music, gentle exercise, or engaging in hobbies that your loved one enjoys. Adapt activities where they need to be adapted to allow your loved one to participate and enjoy themselves.
• Provide companionship. Spend quality time with your loved one, offering companionship and emotional support.

Medications for Alzheimer’s-related agitation

Antipsychotic medications may also be used to treat Alzheimer’s-related agitation in cases where non-pharmacological approaches have not worked, agitation is severe, and the safety of the person and those around them is at risk. As with any medication, it’s important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your loved one’s healthcare provider before beginning treatment with an antipsychotic medication.