Difficult Behaviour : How To Cope
People with memory loss and confusion exhibit
difficult behaviours because the disease has caused changes within
the brain. The suggestions below are designed to help you manage the
difficult behaviours, ensure the person's safety and provide as much
dignity and independence as possible.
1. Do Not Expect The Person To Remember
Because of the disease, people are not able to remember many things, you will frustrate the person by asking, "Don't you remember?"
2. When The Person Becomes Agitated
When the person becomes agitated or displays a difficult behaviour, try to distract him with another activity. For example, when he wanders around the house lost, ask him to take a cup of tea with you.
3. Use Your Common Sense and Be Flexible
Ask yourself "Is the behaviour hurting anyone or the person himself?" and if the answer is "NO", allow the behaviour to continue.
4. Simplify Activities And Communication
Break an activity down into simple, step by step tasks. The person with dementia will be able to focus on one step at a time and complete the activity.
5. Create Routines
A consistent plan for each day including what time to get up, take meals and do activities helps decrease anxiety and promote a sense of comfort for the person with dementia.
6. Offer Reassurance And Praise
This will increase the person's self esteem and reinforce the behaviour.
7. Do Not Argue With The Person With Dementia
His reality is not your reality
8. Identify And Remove Triggers To Behaviour
For example, if the person wants to go outside everytime he sees shoes by the door, remove the shoes.
9. When The Person Demonstrates A New Difficult Behaviour
Try to establish if he is uncomfortable (for example, too hot or too tired, or needs something ( a drink or to use the toilet). If he seems uncomfortable, the behaviour could be related to a medical problem.
10. Daily Exercise
Make sure the person has an opportunity to have exercises every day.
11. Maintain Social Activities
Social activities ensure that the person with dementia remains in contact with other people and offers a sense of well-being.
12. Ensure That The Environment Is Safe And Secure
13. Simplify And Create A Calm, Quiet Environment
Source: Tsao Foundation & Novartis Education Booklet "Caring for Alzheimer's patients"