Caring for someone who has dementia presents numerous challenges to families and caregivers. People who have dementia, such as Alzheimer’s and related diseases, have a progressive biological brain disorder that makes it challenging for them to remember things, think, communicate with others, and care for themselves. Dementia can also cause mood swings, anger and alter a person’s personality and behavior. This fact sheet offers some practical strategies for dealing with the troubling behavior issues and communication difficulties encountered when caring for someone with dementia.

Tips On How To Care For Someone With Dementia:

The personality and behavior changes that frequently occur when caring for a loved one with dementia are among the most difficult challenges. You will meet these challenges most effectively if you use your creativity, flexibility, patience, and compassion. It also helps to keep your sense of humor and not take things personally.

Consider the following ground rules to begin:

1. We can’t change the person:

The person you’re caring for has a brain disorder that has shaped who he is. If you try to control or change his behavior, you will most likely be unsuccessful or face opposition.

2. All behavior serves a purpose.

 Dementia patients are frequently  unable to express their desires or needs. We may wonder why they do things like take all the clothes out of the closet daily. The individual likely satisfies a need to be busy and productive. Always think about what needs the person is attempting to meet with their behavior.

3. Behavior is evoked.

 It is critical to recognize that all behavior is triggered—it occurs for a reason. It could have been something a person did or said, or it could have been a change in the physical environment. Disrupting the patterns that we create is at the heart of changing behavior. Try a different approach or a different outcome.

4. What works today might not work tomorrow.

 Because of the numerous factors that influence troubling behaviors and the natural progression of the disease process, solutions that work today may need to be modified tomorrow—or may no longer work at all. The key to dealing with difficult behaviors is to be creative and adaptable.

5. Create a positive environment for interaction.

Your attitude and body language convey your feelings and thoughts more effectively than your words. Set a good tone by speaking to your loved one in a pleasant and respectful tone.

6. Capture the person’s attention.

 Reduce distractions and noise by turning off the radio or TV, closing the curtains or closing the door, or moving to a quieter environment. Make sure you have the patient’s attention before speaking.

7. State your message.

Make use of simple words and sentences. Speak slowly, clearly, and in a soothing tone. Avoid raising your voice higher or louder; instead, lower your pitch. If he doesn’t understand the first time, repeat your message or question with the exact wording. If he still doesn’t get it, wait a few minutes and ask the question again.

8. Ask simple, answerable questions:

Ask one question at a time; yes/no questions work best. Avoid asking open-ended questions or providing too many options. For instance, you could ask, “Would you like to wear your white shirt or your blue shirt?” Even better, show him the options—visual cues and prompts can help clarify your question and guide his response.

9. Listen with your ears, eyes, and heart:

Be patient as you await your loved one’s response. It’s OK to suggest words if he’s stuck for an answer. Pay attention to nonverbal cues and body language, and respond accordingly. Always strive to hear the meaning and emotions that lie beneath the words.

10. Divide activities into steps:

 You can help your loved one do what he can, gently remind him of steps he forgets, and assist with steps he can no longer complete independently. Using visual cues, such as showing him where to place the dinner plate with your hand, can be very helpful.

11. When things get tough, distract and redirect:

If your loved one becomes angry or agitated, try changing the subject or environment. For example, you could ask him for assistance or suggest going for a walk. Before redirecting, it is critical to connect with the person on an emotional level. You could say, “I see you’re sad—I’m sorry you’re upset.” “Let’s go get some food.”

12. Respond affectionately and reassuringly.

 Dementia patients frequently experience confusion, anxiety, and self-doubt. Furthermore, they often confuse reality and may recall events that never actually occurred. Avoid attempting to persuade them that they are incorrect. Maintain your focus on the feelings they express (which are genuine) and respond with verbal and physical expressions of support, comfort, and reassurance. When all else fails, holding hands, touching, hugging, and praising the person may elicit a response.

13. Reminisce about the good old days:

 Reminiscing can be a soothing and affirming activity. Many people who have dementia may not remember what happened 45 minutes ago, but they can vividly recall their lives 45 years ago. As a result, avoid asking questions that rely on short-term memory, such as what the person had for lunch. Instead, ask broad questions about the person’s distant past; this information is more likely to be remembered.

14. Keep your sense of humor:

When possible, use humor, but not at the expense of the other person. People with dementia usually retain their social skills and are happy to laugh with you.