It can be difficult to care for a loved one who has Alzheimer’s, especially when the disease progresses and behavioral changes become more obvious. When this happens, relying on Alzheimer’s and dementia care can provide much-needed support and resources.

Identifying Behavioral Changes

The hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive loss of cognitive function, which frequently results in profound behavioral and personality changes. These changes may include the following:

• Aggression and Agitation: Unexpected bursts of rage, irritation, or unease are not uncommon. This could be the result of annoyance, confusion, or a poor ability to express needs.
• Wandering: Seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease may wander off from their house, frequently as a result of confusion or a wish to return somewhere they know well. Alzheimer’s and dementia care tips can assist family members in knowing what modifications they can put in place to make sure seniors are safe.
• Repetition: Repeating questions, phrases, or actions is a habitual behavior. Seniors may use this repetition as a coping mechanism for fear or memory loss.
• Sundowning: Sundowning is the term for heightened agitation, disorientation, or restlessness in the late afternoon and evening. It can make things especially difficult at night.
• Paranoia and Delusions: Seniors may start to believe things that aren’t true, like that someone is trying to break into their home or that family members are “out to get them.”
• Depression and Withdrawal: As the disease progresses, apathy, a loss of interest in activities, and social withdrawal are possible outcomes.

Understanding Behavior Triggers

Certain triggers frequently cause behavioral reactions in seniors with Alzheimer’s disease. Understanding these triggers and utilizing tips from Alzheimer’s and dementia care providers will assist loved ones in controlling and minimizing problematic habits.

Typical triggers might include the following:

• Environmental Factors: Disorientation and uneasiness might be brought on by crowded areas, loud noises, or strange environments.
• Physical Discomfort: Anger or agitation may be brought on by pain, hunger, thirst, or exhaustion.
• Communication Issues: Being unable to communicate needs or understand others can be upsetting.
• Routine Changes: When everyday routines are disturbed, it can lead to anxiety and disorientation.
• Overstimulation: Excessive activity or stimulation can be exhausting, particularly in large gatherings.

Techniques for Handling Behaviors with Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care

Behaviors related to Alzheimer’s disease need to be managed with tolerance, adaptability, and understanding. The following techniques may be useful:

1. Maintain a Regular Schedule: Seniors with Alzheimer’s disease may feel more secure when their environment is predictable and structured. Loved ones should make an effort to maintain regular daily schedules for meals, activities, and bedtime.
2. Simplify Communication: It’s important to speak slowly and in plain, simple terms. Additionally, dividing tasks into manageable steps and providing moderate direction can make a big difference.
3. Redirect Attention: If loved ones start to show signs of agitation, attempt to divert their focus to another task or subject. For instance, offer to take them for a walk or have them go through a photo album if they are frustrated about not being able to discover what they are looking for.
4. Focus on Compassion: Even if their concerns are unwarranted, family members should acknowledge seniors’ emotions and provide comfort. For example, if they are concerned that someone might take their possessions, gently assist them in locating a secure location to store those items.

Alzheimer’s disease naturally causes behavioral changes. While these changes can be difficult to manage, knowing what triggers them and using helpful coping mechanisms will greatly improve the standard of care seniors are given. Working together with the resources from Alzheimer’s and dementia care and loved ones can make things easier for seniors as the disease progresses.

If you or an aging loved one are considering Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care in Lakewood, CO, please contact the caring staff at Talem Home Care & Placement Services today. Call (720) 789-8529

At Talem Home Care of Broomfield, we provide passionate, understanding, and flexible caregivers in Broomfield, Arvada, Aurora, Boulder, Brighton, Commerce City, Denver, Erie, Firestone, Lafayette, Lakewood, Longmont, Louisville, Northglenn, Sherrelwood, Thornton, Welby, Westminster, Wheat Ridge and surrounding areas in Colorado.

Sources:

• https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-changes-behavior-and-communication/alzheimers-caregiving-managing-personality-and
• https://memory.ucsf.edu/caregiving-support/behavior-personality-changes
• https://www.helpguide.org/articles/alzheimers-dementia-aging/alzheimers-behavior-management.htm

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