What is agitation?

Agitation in dementia means the person is restless and worried and cannot settle down. The National Institute on Aging says agitated people may pace a lot, be unable to sleep, or act aggressively, lashing out verbally or trying to hit. When these problems start or worsen in the late afternoon or early evening, it is called sundowning. Agitation usually happens for a reason.

Most agitation has a trigger. The National Institute on Aging lists pain, depression or stress, too little sleep, constipation, a sudden change in place, routine or caregiver, too much noise or too many people, being pushed to do something that has become too hard, loneliness, and certain medicines or drug interactions. A doctor can check for physical problems behind it.

Calm the setting and look for the cause. The Alzheimer's Association suggests removing stressors such as noise, glare and a running television, checking for pain, hunger, thirst, constipation, a full bladder or tiredness, and simplifying tasks. Back off, speak calmly, reassure the person, and offer simple choices or a walk. Do not raise your voice, crowd, restrain or argue with them.

Yes, two medicines are FDA approved for agitation linked to Alzheimer's dementia: brexpiprazole, an antipsychotic that carries a warning about increased risk of death in older adults with dementia-related psychosis, and dextromethorphan-bupropion, approved in April 2026. The Alzheimer's Association recommends non-drug approaches first, such as routines and changes to the setting, and shared decision-making with the doctor.

It often does. The National Institute on Aging says people with Alzheimer's may become agitated or aggressive as the disease gets worse. Even so, agitation usually has a cause worth finding, such as pain, poor sleep, constipation, loneliness or a medicine. Keeping a routine, reducing noise and clutter, and letting in daylight can help. Talk with a doctor if it appears suddenly or worsens.