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Dementia does not just affect the person living with the condition – it impacts families, friends and carers as well. One of the more challenging aspects for carers is managing changes in day-to-day behaviour, which can sometimes appear suddenly or without clear explanation. These shifts can be triggered by a variety of factors, such as changes in a person’s environment, their physical health, or even the side effects of certain medications. Among the most common behavioural changes experienced is an increase in agitation.
Agitation refers to a heightened state of emotional or physical tension. It may manifest through verbal signs – such as distress, repeated questioning, calling out, or raised voices – as well as physical behaviours like pacing, restlessness, fidgeting, or picking at clothing or bed sheets. In many cases, agitation is a response to frustration or a feeling of losing control. For someone living with dementia, even the simplest of daily tasks, like dressing or preparing a meal, can become overwhelming. This lack of independence can be upsetting and is often expressed through agitation.
Environmental factors also play a role. A busy or noisy setting can be disorientating, especially when someone is already feeling anxious or fatigued. Something as simple as a change in routine, moving to a new care environment, or being around unfamiliar people can trigger agitation. A lack of quality sleep is another common factor, as tiredness can significantly affect mood and increase confusion.
Understanding the signs of agitation is the first step in supporting someone who is experiencing it. Look for patterns in their behaviour: are they becoming restless at certain times of day, or after certain activities? Are there specific triggers, like loud noise, bright lights or unexpected visitors, that make the person unsettled? Recognising these cues early can help carers take proactive steps to ease tension before it escalates.
When agitation occurs, a calm and reassuring approach can make a world of difference. Using a soothing tone of voice, maintaining eye contact, and offering gentle touch or reassurance can help to reduce distress. Sometimes, simply moving to a quieter space or engaging the person in a familiar and comforting activity, like listening to music or going for a short walk, can redirect their focus and improve their mood.
It’s also important to remember that agitation is not a personal attack on the carer or loved ones. It is often a form of communication when someone is struggling to express their needs. For instance, agitation might be a sign of physical discomfort, such as hunger, thirst, pain, or the need to use the bathroom. Regularly checking for these underlying needs can prevent frustration from building.
Carers can make small but meaningful adjustments to create a calmer and more supportive environment. This could include reducing background noise, ensuring rooms are well-lit but not overly bright, and keeping familiar objects close to hand to provide comfort. A predictable daily routine can also help reduce anxiety, as it gives the person a sense of structure and security.
Taking time to connect with the person, even through short, meaningful conversations or shared activities, can also reduce agitation. Simple things like reminiscing about positive memories, looking at old photos, or involving them in small, achievable tasks can help restore a sense of purpose and control.
