ManyAlzheimer's patients regress. One interesting analysis compares the 10-1 years of progressive disease as the first dozen years of childhood development in reverse. A patient who has had Alzheimer's for 6 years, may have the capacity of a 6 year old. A patient who has had Alzheime'rs for 10 years may have the mental capacity of a 2 year old, both in terms of language and problem solving skills. Irritability, lack of self control can be manifestations.
Antidepressants have a role.
New medicines such as zyprexa. Many simple things work. These may include gentle rocking to help sleep, use of bright lights to regulate the day-night cycle, use of dolls or pets as soothing to behavior, music therapy etc. Most important is attention to detail. Sudden chances need to be evaluated, to look for intercurrent medical problems., medication effects.