---
title: BPSD — Anxiety
type: concept
last_updated: 2026-04-25
sources:
  - code/kb_loader/data/clinical/bpsd/anxiety.json
status: settled
---

# Anxiety

Common in MCI and mild AD; often a predictor of progression rather than a late-stage feature.

## Sensor signature

- **EDA:** elevated (sympathetic arousal)
- **HR:** elevated, often with reduced HRV
- **Activity:** normal or *decreased* (key contrast vs. agitation, which has activity↑)

## Distinguishing from agitation

Anxiety = arousal *without* externalizing motor activation; agitation = arousal *with* it. Same EDA/HR pattern, different IMU profile.

## Intervention

Reassurance, environmental stability, light exercise, mindfulness-style audio prompts. See [Intervention agent](../agents/intervention_agent.md).

KB: [`code/kb_loader/data/clinical/bpsd/anxiety.json`](../../code/kb_loader/data/clinical/bpsd/anxiety.json). Umbrella: [BPSD](bpsd.md).