Abstract

Dementia affects millions of people worldwide, and behavioral and psychological symptoms (BPSD), including agitation and anxiety, significantly impair the quality of life of individuals with dementia. These symptoms often lead to caregiver burden, accelerated cognitive decline, and increased institutionalization. While pharmacological treatments, such as antipsychotics, are commonly prescribed, their efficacy is limited and associated with severe risks, including stroke and mortality. Consequently, there has been a growing emphasis on non-pharmacological interventions as safer and more effective alternatives. These include approaches such as music therapy, exercise programs, sensory stimulation, psychosocial interventions, and environmental adjustments. Recent studies highlight the effectiveness of person-centered care and structured caregiver training in alleviating BPSD, offering practical strategies for managing agitation and anxiety. Additionally, therapies such as reminiscence, relaxation techniques, and animal-assisted therapy have demonstrated positive outcomes in reducing these symptoms. Despite promising results, the widespread implementation of these non-pharmacological strategies remains inconsistent, and further research is needed to standardize interventions and assess their long-term efficacy. This review consolidates current evidence on non-pharmacological treatments for dementia-related anxiety and agitation, emphasizing their clinical applications, benefits, and areas where further investigation is needed to optimize care strategies.