Agitation in Dementia – Dr Mathias Schlögl

In this Swiss Network for Dementia Research webinar Dr Mathias Schlögl (Chief Physician of Geriatrics at Klinik Barmelweid and Fellow at the UZH Healthy Longevity Center) will discuss the clinical challenges of agitation in dementia and behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD).

Agitation is among the most distressing and burdensome symptoms in dementia care — affecting patients, relatives, caregivers, and healthcare systems alike. Yet behind agitation often lie unmet physical, emotional, social, or environmental needs that remain insufficiently recognized.

This webinar will focus on:

• recognising agitation as a clinical symptom rather than “difficult behaviour”
• identifying unmet needs and reversible triggers
• communication strategies and stimulus regulation in daily practice
• non-pharmacological interventions as first-line treatment
• the careful and evidence-based use of psychopharmacological therapies

Drawing from geriatrics, delirium medicine, communication science, and clinical practice, the session aims to provide practical and immediately applicable strategies for clinicians and healthcare professionals involved in dementia care.

The webinar is hosted by Dr. Tatjana Meyer-Heim (Gesundheitszentren für das Alter, Zürich) and offers a platform for shared learning and discussion, enabling participants to exchange insights and experiences.