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What is Agitation in Alzheimer’s Disease (AAD)

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Agitation in Alzheimer’s disease can appear as increased motor activity, verbal aggression, or physical aggression and may interfere with relationships, daily activities, and care. This caregiver resource helps families recognize changes in behavior, identify possible triggers, and use practical nonpharmacologic calming strategies. This resource reviews when medication may be considered, the options currently available, and when urgent safety concerns require immediate action.

Released: October 02, 2026

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Provided by Clinical Care Options, LLC dba Decera Clinical Education

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Supporters

This activity is supported by an educational grant from Axsome Therapeutics, Inc.

Axsome Therapeutics, Inc.

Target Audience

This activity is intended for HCPs involved in the diagnosis and management of AD agitation, including psychiatrists, geriatric psychiatrists, neurologists, primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician associates.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this activity, participants should be able to:

  • Recognize and characterize symptoms of AAD with regards to diagnostic criteria, validated assessment instruments, and differentiation from similar and/or overlapping conditions

  • Understand current evidence supporting efficacy and safety of approved, off-label, and investigational pharmacologic therapies for patients with AAD

  • Formulate individualized strategies to support non-pharmacologic interventions for patients with AAD, including appropriate roles and support for caregivers and multidisciplinary team members in home-based and long-term care settings

Financial Disclosures

Primary Author

Susan Scaland, MSN, CRNP, GNP-BC, CDP: consultant/advisor/speaker: Axsome, Bristol Myers Squibb, Teva.