Caring for a friend or relative with dementia can be very challenging for informal caregivers. Those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia live with a progressive brain disorder that makes it harder and harder for them to remember things, think clearly, communicate with others, and take care of themselves. Mood swings, along with changes in personality and behavior, are common. What follows is a guide to managing dementia behaviors more effectively so your loved one can age in place safely and comfortably.
Dementia May Cause these Unusual Behaviors
Some of the biggest challenges of caring for a loved one with dementia are the behavior and personality changes that often occur.
Although not every dementia patient exhibits the same behaviors, these are some of the more common ones you can expect as the disease progresses:
- Wandering
- Incontinence
- Agitation
- Repetitive Speech or Actions (Perseveration)
- Paranoia
- Sleep Issues/Sundowning
- Eating/Nutrition Issues
- Bathing Issues
- Hallucinations
Dementia Behavior Management Tips for Caregivers
When caring for someone with dementia, remember to maintain your sense of humor and not take things personally no matter how bizarre or irrational their behavior becomes.
That said, be sure to include these six points in your dementia behavior management strategy:
Consult with their doctor first
Behavioral issues sometimes result from an underlying medical issue. For example, certain medications can cause side effects that directly or indirectly alter mood and behavior. Before jumping to conclusions, ask their doctor if a medical issue could be the problem.
Don’t try to change them
Your care recipient has a brain disorder that shapes who they have become. When you try to change or control their behavior, you’ll more than likely meet resistance and failure. Instead, try to accommodate the behavior without controlling it. That might require you to change your behavior or physical environment. For instance, if your loved one insists on eating cereal for dinner every night, serve them cereal.
All behaviors have triggers
It is essential to understand that all behavior is triggered and occurs for a reason. It might be something a person does or says that triggers a behavior, or it could be a change in the physical environment. The key to changing their behavior is disrupting established patterns. Try a different approach or a different consequence.
What works today may not work tomorrow
The only constant when caring for someone with dementia is that things will constantly change. Due to factors that include the natural progression of the disease, methods that are successful today may need to be adjusted tomorrow or the next day. In some cases, they may no longer work at all. Managing difficult behaviors over time will require a creative and flexible strategic approach that addresses the same issue.
When needed, seek outside assistance
Like the one you are caring for, there will be good days and bad. The Golden Rule when assisting someone with dementia is to not go it alone. Information sources such as caregiver support groups, your local chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, or contacts who work in the healthcare field can all be invaluable when the level of care needed exceeds your expertise.
At some point, it may become necessary to hire a professional in-home caregiver so that your loved one can safely remain in the comfortable and familiar surroundings of their – or your – private residence. Bottom line: Don’t be afraid to admit your limitations and seek outside assistance before it’s too late.
Flexible In-Home Dementia Care for Families in NW Boston
Finding someone trustworthy to care for a loved one with dementia can be frustrating. At Assisting Hands Home Care, our professional in-home senior care services allow clients in the greater Boston, MA, area to remain safely and comfortably in their own homes – including those with dementia. Our trained, dependable caregivers and personal assistants can help your family overcome its eldercare challenges while making your loved one’s home an even better place to be.
Our turnkey home care services include everything from companionship, meal preparation, medication reminders, and transportation to light housekeeping, laundry, and personal care assistance with bathing and dressing. From a few hours a day to around-the-clock care, our customized in-home care solutions have got your family covered. Click here now to learn more about Assisting Hands Home Care or schedule a free consultation for a senior in Northwest Boston.
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