Agitation in cognitive disorders: Progress in the International Psychogeriatric Association consensus clinical and research definition

Abstract

Background: The International Psychogeriatric Association (IPA) published a provisional consensus definition of agitation in cognitive disorders in 2015. As proposed by the original work group, we summarize the use and validation of criteria in order to remove "provisional" from the definition.

Methods: This report summarizes information from the academic literature, research resources, clinical guidelines, expert surveys, and patient and family advocates on the experience of use of the IPA definition. The information was reviewed by a working group of topic experts to create a finalized definition.

Results: We present a final definition which closely resembles the provisional definition with modifications to address special circumstances. We also summarize the development of tools for diagnosis and assessment of agitation and propose strategies for dissemination and integration into precision diagnosis and agitation interventions.

Conclusion: The IPA definition of agitation captures a common and important entity that is recognized by many stakeholders. Dissemination of the definition will permit broader detection and can advance research and best practices for care of patients with agitation.

Keywords: Alzheimer’s disease; Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia; International Psychogeriatric Association; aggression; agitation; dementia; neuropsychiatric symptoms.

Figure 1.

Number of clinical trials by year which used specific criteria to define agitation (01/01/2015 to 07/01/2021).