Managing Agitation in Alzheimer’s care requires patience, empathy, and an understanding of what your loved one may be experiencing as they navigate confusion, anxiety, and overstimulation. As the disease progresses, your loved one may feel increasingly anxious, confused, or overwhelmed, and that can lead to agitation. They may pace, raise their voice, or lash out in ways that may feel unfamiliar to who they were prior to their dementia diagnosis.

While it’s hard to see someone you care about struggle, there are ways to help them feel safe and supported. Small adjustments can make a big difference for both them and for you.

Why Does Agitation Happen?

Agitation in someone with Alzheimer’s isn’t just “acting out.” It’s often their way of expressing that something feels wrong, but they don’t have the words to explain it.

Some common triggers include:

• Changes in routine or environment (like moving to a new home or staying in the hospital)
• Unfamiliar caregivers or visitors
• Overstimulation: loud noises, bright lights, too much activity
• Feeling hungry, tired, or in pain
• Misunderstanding what’s happening around them

Understanding what might be behind the behavior is the first step toward helping.

How to Prevent Agitation Before It Starts

The good news is that with a little planning, you can often head off emotional escalations.

Create calm spaces. Reduce clutter, keep noise levels low, and use soft lighting.

Stick to a rhythm. Routines offer comfort and predictability.

Simplify tasks. Break daily activities into small, manageable steps.

Watch for discomfort or uncomfortable stimuli. Mood changes can be a sign of hunger, being too warm or cold, needing the use the restroom,  pain, or even an infection.

Exercise gently. A short walk or some doing a familiar activity like folding towels, doing art or crafts, or gardening can help redirect their energy.

What to Do in the Moment

Your response makes a big difference in managing agitation in Alzheimer’s care.

Avoid:

• Arguing, raising your voice, or trying to force things “back to normal”
• Crowding, cornering, or ignoring them

Instead:

• Speak softly and offer reassurance. “You’re safe here. I’m here with you.”
• Give simple, guided choices: “Would you like to sit here or over there?”
• Redirect their attention with options such as music, an activity, or a short walk.
• Keeping your demeanor as calm as possible. This can help them remain calm, rather than further escalating.

Checking With a Doctor

As noted by the Alzheimer’s Association, being aware of potential  medical complications is very important. Sometimes agitation is tied to an underlying health issue or even a side effect of medication. If you notice changes or behaviors that seem sudden or severe, work with a doctor to rule out pain, infections, or the need to adjust medications.

You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

Managing agitation in Alzheimer’s care is often a labor of love, but it can also feel overwhelming. Needing extra support doesn’t mean you’re not doing a good enough job; in fact, asking for help so you can continue to care for your loved one is an important step in preventing caregiver burnout.

At Assisting Hands Home Care – Cave Creek, we’re here to help. Our professional caregivers are specially trained in dementia care and can provide the companionship, structure, and relief you and your loved one need. Whether it’s just a few hours a day or full-time support, we’ll work with you to create a plan that fits your family. You can schedule a phone consultation to see how we can help by calling our office at (480) 863 – 6591, or by booking online using our online calendar. We look forward to seeing how we can help support you and your loved one!