A recent study showed that 10 percent of Americans ages 65 and older are living with dementia.[1] While there are different stages of the disease, there are several common behaviors that people with dementia exhibit. These behaviors can present challenges to caregivers who may not know how to handle them or may begin feeling burned out by the process. At Encore Communities, we understand this, so we provide respite care for dementia patients to give caregivers the timeout they deserve. As we explore several common dementia behaviors, we will also provide tips on how to deal with them as well as the benefits of seeking respite care.
Dementia Behaviors to Be Aware Of and How to Deal with Them
Wandering
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 6 out of 10 people with dementia will wander at least once.[2] This can be due to boredom or what is referred to as “sundowning”. This is the state of confusion that those with dementia may feel late into the afternoon and through the night. While the exact cause is unknown, it can lead to pacing, wandering, and confusion.[3]
When those with dementia begin to wander, it can be increasingly dangerous. Installing child-proof locks, taking keys away, and even giving your loved one a GPS are all ways to help keep them safe.
Repetitive Actions and Speech
Many with dementia repeat sentences and actions. Anxiety and fear can trigger this behavior. While it is not harmful, it can become frustrating and stressful for caregivers.
If your loved one repeats their actions and words, try reassuring them and distracting them with an activity. It may also be a good idea to avoid reminding them that they just said the same thing. This may raise their anxiety and only make the behavior worse.
Forgetting to Eat or Drink
People with dementia may forget to eat or drink. When those with dementia are not getting the proper foods, it can lead to weight loss, irritability, and disorientation.
Suggesting your loved one eat smaller meals throughout the day instead of three large ones can be one way for them to get the proper nutrition. You can also sit down and eat with them. Sometimes, having company will make them want to continue to eat. Be sure that whatever food they eat is easy for them. They may get discouraged and stop eating if they can’t cut something or if food is too hard.
Delusions and Paranoia
Dementia can lead to a patient believing someone is harming them when they’re not and having false beliefs contradicted by reality. When delusions and paranoia settle in, try avoiding having an argument or convincing them that their perceptions are wrong. You can calmly express your perception of what is going on. Some people with these symptoms require medication.
Incontinence
As dementia progresses, your loved one may forget where the bathroom is or not realize they have to go. When this happens, incontinence products may be needed. You can also try to keep your loved one on a schedule and remind them to use the bathroom every few hours.
Agitation
People with dementia may begin to experience agitation due to fear, fatigue, and environmental factors. If you begin to notice agitation, you can try to reduce noise and maintain a routine. Keeping items in the same location and establishing a schedule can all help decrease the agitation someone with dementia may experience.
Seeking Respite Care to Deal with Dementia Behaviors
Dealing with the many dementia behaviors listed above can become overwhelming for caregivers. They may begin to neglect their own needs as they become stressed, exhausted, and burned out. If you are caring for someone with dementia and are not getting the rest, nutrition, and time you deserve, you may want to seek respite care.
Respite care puts your loved one in the hands of qualified professionals who can give them the care they need while you take care of yourself. Respite care can occur daily when required or provided if a caregiver must be away for several days. The idea is to give caregivers the break they need so they can take care of themselves.
Are You Looking for Respite Care for Dementia? Encore Communities Can Help
Encore Communities provides professional respite care for caregivers who need a timeout. Our respite care program is available daily or for an extended period of up to 30 days. During their stay, patients receive the monitoring and care they need while their caregiver focuses on their personal needs. This includes medication monitoring, safety checks, nutritious meals, and activities.
Encore Communities offers respite care in Shoreline and Silverdale, Washington, and Corvallis, Oregon. Contact us today to learn more!
Sources:
[1] https://www.cuimc.columbia.edu/news/one-10-older-americans-has-dementia
[2] https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/health/info-2022/common-dementia-behaviors.html
Dan is Vice President, Marketing of the Alumus family of companies. A Seattle native, he earned his BA in Humanities and Political Science at Evergreen State College. He started his career as a newspaper columnist, eventually transitioning into marketing and tech writing for Microsoft and several other startups. He later launched a successful creative agency focused on branding, digital marketing, and content production in Los Angeles, where he worked for several nursing and behavioral health clients, eventually becoming the National Marketing Director for one of them.
He has taught Vipassana mindfulness meditation and MBSR and spends whatever free time he has with his son snowboarding, hiking, and camping in the mountains.
