Tips for Dealing with Dementia-Related Behaviors
From an outside view, dementia and Alzheimer’s present as someone who is confused at times and often repeats themselves. Some memory care patients, especially in the beginning, can even “fake it” through shorter conversations with someone they no longer recognize in a way that is virtually unnoticeable to the person on the other end of the discussion. For the primary caregiver, the person who sees the toll these diseases take on their loved one, and often the person who receives the brunt of the negative behaviors associated with these diseases, it rears a much uglier head.
The truth is, both of these diseases have a series of behaviors that come with them that extend much further than memory loss. We have identified some of the most common of these behaviors and included strategies for dealing with these situations and avoiding them all together.
Aggression
Aggressive behaviors can seemingly come out of nowhere or flair up from a high tense or frustrating situation. They can present anywhere from the early to late stages in Alzheimer’s and dementia. These situations can be difficult and frustrating for caregivers to cope with. It is important to remember that your loved one is not in control of these actions and behaviors and they are not reacting this way on purpose. There are a few tips that can be used to help minimize these instances.
· Are they hungry? Try offering them a favorite snack or beverage and see if they’re either hungry or thirsty.
· Are they tired? Ask if they would like to sit/lay down and watch their favorite show on tv. The time to relax will help your loved one nod off if they are sleep deprived. You can read more on difficulty with sleeping and tips below.
· Has their schedule been changed?
Difficulty Sleeping
Sleep disturbances in patients with Alzheimer’s and dementia are fairly common; however, the “why?” is still undetermined. Has your loved one been having trouble sleeping due to confusion in schedules or sundowning? Studies indicate that around 20% of people with Alzheimer’s may become increasingly agitated and confused in the later hours of the day.
Additionally, some memory care patients become nocturnal and are awake all night but still find it hard to sleep during the day due to discomfort, having to complete day-to-day tasks, etc. Ask if they would like to sit/lay down and watch their favorite show on tv. The time to relax can help your loved one nod off if they are sleep deprived. There are a few strategies you can use to minimize behaviors brought on by the evenings. Try them out and find which work for you.
· Set a Schedule
As difficult as it may be, stick to a set schedule as much as possible. Establishing a routine will normalize the events of the day and make it easier to follow through with each task.
· Avoid Supplements that Affect Sleep
Most common is caffeine but nicotine and alcohol can also disrupt a good night’s sleep.
· Make Sure Lighting is Adequate
Well-lit rooms can reduce the amount of behaviors by reducing the uncertainty and fear that your loved one may be associating with the dark.
· Shut Blinds and Curtains at Night
Looking outside and seeing darkness can cause fear and agitation. In some instances, it causes an Alzheimer’s or dementia patient to feel unfamiliar with their surroundings and request to “go home” or try leaving the current building they’re in.
· Consult your Physician
Talk to your loved one’s doctor. They may have other suggestions and examples of strategies that may work for your unique situation.
Wandering
Over half of Alzheimer’s patients will wander due to confusion and disorientation. This can also occur in the early stages of dementia. Unfortunately, these instances are common and almost impossible to avoid, but there are strategies you can use to prevent it from happening regularly and handle it quickly and efficiently if it does happen.
· Keep Curtains Drawn after Dark
Looking out into the darkness, especially for those who experience sundowners, can cause confusion that may lead to your loved one feeling like they need to leave where they’re at
· Plan for Supervision at all Times When Wandering is More Common
Find patterns and times where confusion is at its highest and plan for your loved one to be with someone they are comfortable with during those times
· Alarm Common Entrances
Place signaling devices such as a bell at doors in the home so you will be alerted when they are opened.
We hope you find these tips helpful! For more questions or local resources that can help, call Kore Cares at (605) 275-2344.