If your loved one is experiencing anger, confusion or sadness due to symptoms of Dementia, you may find dealing with them physically and emotionally challenging even though you know that their actions and/or behaviors are not intentional, rather a symptom of a disease. Here are some common behavior changes associated with Dementia and how to manage them.
1. Confusion
Phrases such as “Where are we? or “I want to go home?” are common in patients dealing with Alzheimer’s since the disease affects memory faculties. Paranoia and frequent mood swings often results to confusion.
2. Aggressive Behavior
It commonly appears in verbal communication where a person with dementia may be stubborn and display anger towards those around them. It’s important to understand that there is a cause for the behavior. The person is either experiencing physical discomfort or is unhappy with their environment. When they experience feelings of discomfort and are unable to express their emotions, they may take it out on the person closest to them, which could be you, their caregiver. When they are overstimulated by their environment, be it loud noises or too many people around them, they can lash out so be mindful of the environment around them. Lastly, make sure you aren’t confusing them with complicated instructions such as picking up after themselves or taking medication.
3. Poor Judgement
A person with dementia may throw unfounded accusations such as “You stole my watch!”, or struggle with managing their finances, constantly repeating tasks, statement and questions like “what is your name?”. This is caused by the deterioration of the brain and memory. This is not obvious and may go unnoticed in the early stages of Dementia therefore be sure to pay close attention for this behavior changes in the early and progressing stages of Dementia.
HOW TO MANAGE BEHAVIOR CHANGES OF DEMENTIA
Aggression can be solved after you determine what’s causing discomfort to your loved one. Others may clearly explain the cause of their discomfort while others are unable to explain clearly. Try to identify what happened before the outburst as it may have something to do with the cause of your loved one’s discomfort. Then immediately try to change the environment, or situation to help them feel more comfortable.
When confusion is apparent in a dementia patient, avoid reasoning with them. Instead, assure them that the situation will be solved. This is more to help them calm down than for logical thinking. Present your parents or loved one with reminders about things or places that keep them calm such as photos and objects in their home.
Paying bills and managing their finances at this point has become a difficult task so if your parent is still trying their best to manage it effectively, instead of standing over them as a watchdog, praise their efforts and offer to help them in small ways without stripping away all their independence. They will appreciate this and will definitely trust you to take over when they can no longer manage their bills.
Alzheimer’s disease and dementia patients may experience different behavior changes at various stages of the disease, and not every individual will experience the same symptoms and behaviors. Keep a close watch over your loved one to note any behavior changes and seek medical advice and guidance if need be.
Dealing with dementia behavior can be challenging and can quickly wear out a caregiver. If you feel you are unable to provide the level of care your loved one needs, don’t hesitate to seek help.
Contact us today to see if Southern Comfort Senior Living will be a great fit for your loved one who’s been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s/Dementia.
Comments