Challenging Behaviors with Dementia

As parents we may have dealt with challenging behaviors of our children when they were growing up; screaming, nail biting, etc.   They were stressful and we looked for solutions to the behavior and we hoped our child would grow out of them.

When a loved one has dementia, challenging behaviors can result.  Studies suggest that the majority or 80 percent of those with dementia will exhibit behaviors as their brain cells are impacted by the disease.

Tips for dealing with a loved one:

• Remember it’s the disease process at fault not your loved one.
• You know your loved one best, what could be causing their behavior? Is it an unmet need they can’t communicate? For example, are they cold or in pain?  Could they have a tooth ache as I learned was the case with a client. Do they need to use the bathroom or are they hungry/thirsty.
• Did something trigger a behavior?
• Sometimes a change in the environment might help. Take a walk, provide an activity or Put on some music.

Before Placement of Your Loved One

• Ask about their experience with behaviors?
• What is their process for dealing with behaviors?
• Talk to the RN or Housing Manager not just the marketing/sales staff about behavior management.
• Ask what the process would be if a behavior issue arose with your loved one.

These are a few of the questions to ask.  For support contact Choice Connections. We are always willing to advise when challenging times arise.