Agitation in Alzheimer Disease

Agitation is a common and challenging behavioral symptom in dementia that primary care providers frequently encounter. Characterized by increased motor activity, restlessness, verbal or physical aggression, and emotional distress, agitation affects a large proportion of patients with Alzheimer disease (AD) as the illness progresses. Studies estimate that 30% to 50% of patients with AD experience agitation. For primary care clinicians on the frontlines of dementia care, effectively managing agitation can improve quality of life for patients and caregivers and potentially delay institutionalization.