What behavioral symptoms are often observed in advanced Alzheimer's disease?

In advanced Alzheimer's disease, individuals commonly exhibit behavioral symptoms such as apathy, agitation, and wandering. Apathy refers to a lack of interest or motivation, which can manifest as decreased engagement in activities that were once enjoyable or meaningful. This is often accompanied by agitation, where individuals may become restless or exhibit signs of distress, frequently due to confusion or frustration related to their cognitive decline. Wandering is another prevalent behavior, where individuals may walk away from familiar surroundings, posing risks to their safety and increasing the need for supervision.

These behavioral symptoms arise from the significant cognitive impairments associated with Alzheimer's as the disease progresses. Individuals may struggle with memory and orientation, leading to confusion and anxiety, which in turn can trigger agitation. Wandering can also result from a desire to fulfill unmet needs or from disorientation in their environment.

In contrast, the other options reflect behaviors and states that are generally inconsistent with what is observed in advanced stages of Alzheimer’s. Contentment and high energy, increased empathy, understanding, and unwavering focus are not typical characteristics of individuals facing such severe cognitive decline, which often leads to confusion and disengagement rather than clarity or empathetic responses.