Agitation & Restlessness in Dementia
Behavioral ConcernsAimless pacing, vocal repetition, and evening confusion (Sundowning) in dementia patients.
Agitation is an emotional expression of distress, confusion, or physical discomfort in dementia patients. Identifying the exact trigger allows for safe, non-sedating relief.
- Continuous pacing back and forth or repetitive hand-wringing
- Shouting, asking the same question dozens of times per hour
- Evening restlessness & confusion as daylight fades (Sundowning)
- Unrecognized physical pain (UTIs, constipation, joint pain)
- Environmental overstimulation, loud noise, or unfamiliar surroundings
- Frontal lobe neuro-degeneration inhibiting impulse control
- Sudden acute agitation onset over 24-48 hours (indicates medical Delirium)
- Pacing to extreme physical exhaustion or fall danger
- Medical infection & pain workup
- Calm routine creation & lighting adjustments
- Targeted non-sedating psychotropic medication when needed