Semester of Graduation
Spring 2027
Degree Name
Masters in Nursing
Department
Family Nurse Practitioner
Committee Chair/First Advisor
Modupe Akintomide
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) are devastating and debilitating disorders that continue to increase prevalence over time. According to the Alzheimer's Association (2024), nearly seven million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and this number is projected to rise to about 13 million by 2050. Alzheimer's disease is the most usual form of dementia accounting for about 60-70% of cases (Pinyopornpanish et al., 2022). Persons living with ADRD (Pw-ADRD) experience behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) that include disruptions in perception, thought processes, mood, or behavior (Richler et al., 2023). Agitation is one of the most prevalent and challenging dementia-related behavioral symptoms, characterized by inappropriate verbal, vocal, or physical actions that impact the life of Pw-ADRD and increases family and caregivers’ burden (Cohen-Mansfield & Billig, 1986; Givens et al., 2015; Wetzels et al., 2010). This integrative review aimed to evaluate and synthesize evidence from published literature on the effectiveness of nonpharmacological interventions (NPIs) in reducing dementia-related agitation. The review was guided by the following questions: (1) Do NPIs decrease agitation in Pw-ADRD? (2) What are the most effective NPIs for reducing agitation episodes in persons living with ADRD?