At the Alliance, we know that when a loved one is living with Alzheimer’s disease, symptoms are often more complicated than just the devastating memory loss. Neuropsychiatric symptoms, such as hallucinations, anxiety, agitation, and other behaviors, can be confusing and worrying for family caregivers. However, while nearly all individuals living with Alzheimer’s will experience neuropsychiatric symptoms at some point, few resources exist to help caregivers actually understand and navigate how to care for a loved one experiencing them.
To address this critical gap, the Alliance for Aging Research has released “Caring For a Loved One with Neuropsychiatric Symptoms,” a new film series focused on six of the most common neuropsychiatric symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. Each film is guided by Carolyn Clevenger, a nationally recognized gerontological nurse practitioner and Director of Emory University’s Integrated Memory Care Clinic. Dr. Clevenger draws on her extensive clinical experience and warm, accessible style, to break down each symptom, discuss treatment options, and empower caregivers.
The series includes:
- Agitation, which affects up to 70% of people with Alzheimer’s and may include restlessness, yelling, or physical aggression. The film offers calming strategies and explains when to seek medical support.
- Anxiety and Depression, often overlooked or mistaken for other behaviors. This film highlights subtle signs and encourages timely, compassionate intervention.
- Apathy, which can be one of the most distressing symptoms for caregivers. It explores how apathy differs from depression and how to support a loved one who has lost motivation.
- Psychosis, which may involve hallucinations or delusions. The film explains the difference, such as seeing things that aren’t there versus firmly believing something untrue, and guides families on how to respond without confrontation or fear.
- Sleep Disturbances, which can take a major toll on both the person with Alzheimer’s and their caregiver. This film explores how routines, environment, and targeted treatment can help restore rest.
- Wandering, one of the most dangerous symptoms. This film outlines risk factors and safety strategies, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead while preserving dignity.
Dr. Clevenger offers real-world examples and clinical best practices to help underscore that these are not just behavioral problems, but medical symptoms that deserve understanding, treatment, and support.
We hope that this series will help caregivers to better understand these symptoms, feel less isolated, and be empowered to face these challenges. The full series and additional films and resources on neuropsychiatric symptoms can be found on our website.
These videos were created with support from Lundbeck and Otsuka.
Katrin Werner-Perez is the Director of Health Programs for the Alliance.
