Agitation in dementia: concept clarification.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Psychiatry
• Nursing Science

Background:

• The concept of agitation in dementia lacks a clear definition, leading to confusion.
• Existing theoretical models for agitation in dementia necessitate re-evaluation.
• Distinguishing agitation from related concepts in dementia care is challenging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To clarify the concept of agitation in dementia.
• To analyze definitions, attributes, boundaries, antecedents, and consequences of agitation.
• To provide a patient-centered conceptualization of agitation.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Morse's critical appraisal and Rodgers' evolutionary methods.
• Conducted a literature review across six electronic databases.
• Analyzed 86 papers and one book using keywords: agitation, dementia, and Alzheimer's.

Main Results:

• Identified a shift from observer to patient perspective in understanding agitation.
• Defined five critical attributes of agitation: excessive, inappropriate, repetitive, non-specific, and observable.
• Outlined precipitating and mediating antecedents, including patient, interpersonal, environmental factors, discomfort, and unmet needs.

Conclusions:

• A patient-centered perspective on agitation in dementia is crucial.
• This perspective can transform healthcare provider attitudes and care delivery.
• Recommends avoiding the label 'disturbing behavior' for agitated actions.