The second step involves a close examination of possible physical causes of agitation. Persons with impaired hearing or sight may interpret events as threatening. The third step involves a careful evaluation of the environment. A psychiatric evaluation is the fourth step in this process. Up to 25 percent of patients with dementia also may have a depressive disorder.
Behavioral approaches are the major component of the fifth step.
If the environment has been pinpointed as a major problem for the person, remove the cause of the stress or remove the person. Caregivers' expectations should be realistic about the ability of the person to perform certain tasks. Caregivers need to understand and tolerate odd behaviors. Safe places should be available for some behaviors. Allowing a safe place for wandering may be more helpful than trying to eliminate the behavior.