Agitation affects up to 75% of the roughly 7 million Americans living with Alzheimer's disease, and a new survey presented at Psych Congress 2026 makes clear just how much damage it does — to patients and caregivers alike. The "Shared Goals: Navigating Alzheimer's Agitation Survey" polled 751 informal caregivers and found that 97% said agitation negatively impacted their loved one's quality of life, while 89% said it hurt their own wellbeing too.

What's striking is how often agitation goes unrecognized. The most harmful symptoms weren't aggressive outbursts — they were quieter behaviors like complaining, repetitive questions, and inappropriate laughter or crying. More than two-thirds of caregivers didn't know agitation was even a symptom of Alzheimer's when they started caregiving, and 76% wished they had recognized it sooner.

By the Numbers:

• 90% of caregivers say their main focus becomes just getting through the day during agitation episodes
• 96% say agitation affects patients' ability to care for themselves
• 76% of caregivers wish they had recognized agitation earlier
• 53% regret not speaking with a healthcare provider sooner
• 96% say their loved one seems more like themselves when agitation is controlled

Why it matters: Earlier conversations between clinicians, patients, and caregivers could dramatically improve outcomes. Agitation is a distinct, treatable condition — and recognizing it sooner means families can set realistic goals and seek help before quality of life takes a serious hit.