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Understanding Why
People with dementia use behavior as a way to communicate. Once we understand why a person with dementia exhibits a specific behavior, we can focus on meeting the need instead of focusing on the behavior. Some typical behaviors may include pacing, exit seeking, wandering, undressing and rummaging. Here are some tips to consider when managing difficult behaviors.
Behavior is used for communication. Is your loved one...
- Hungry?
- Afraid?
- Lonely?
- Thirsty?
- Tired?
- Needing to use the toilet?
- In pain?
People with dementia can read your body language.
- Maintain eye contact.
- Match their motions and emotions.
- Remain calm.
- Be mindful of your tone of voice, posture, pace, and gestures.
Live in "their moment." Do not try to re-orientate them to the present time, which can lead to increased agitation.
Develop a routine. People with dementia feel safe when they know what to expect next.
Involve them in routine daily tasks that are familiar, such as sweeping, dusting, laundry folding, setting the table-things that don't have to be done any specific way.
More Information about Alzheimer's Disease
Learn more about Alzheimer's and Dementia in our Elder Health Guides section by reading Alzheimer's Disease: An Overview.
Back to Caregiver Tips for more tips!
