
Alzheimer’s is more than just memory loss
Agitation and behavior changes can shape Alzheimer’s journey
For many, memory loss is the hallmark sign of Alzheimer’s and dementia.
But dementia does more than cloud memory. It can alter how people communicate, change their personality and attitude and lead to agitation or erratic behavior. Dementia can cause lack of judgement, a lack of empathy or difficulty in interpreting and communicating feelings.
Neither the person nor the behavior is the problem—the issue often lies in an unmet need or emotion that the person is trying to communicate.
There are many kinds of dementia. And in turn, each type of dementia—or combination of dementia —alters brain function in different ways. For caregivers and loved ones, these changes to personality and behavior can be one of the most challenging aspects. Understanding why these changes occur and learning how to respond can make a significant difference.
What does change look like?
What might these changes look like in everyday life? Here are a few examples:
- Walking around the house partially or completely unclothed.
They may know how to dress themselves, but can’t remember where their clothes are. Or they may feel too warm, or their clothes are itchy and uncomfortable. - Throwing the milk carton across the kitchen.
They do not want milk but are unable to verbalize their feelings. - Yelling and making threats to others.
They may have physical pain they cannot express or feel overwhelmed by a situation they feel is out of their control.
Other reactions include rummaging, wandering, repeating the same activities over and over or changes may escalate into more inappropriate actions.
A number of underlying factors can contribute to someone’s abnormal behavior. Assessing the situation to anticipate an uncommunicated need can be challenging. Mentally filing a checklist of potential issues will help you stay calm and address the root cause of the behavior.
Validate, don’t argue
Understanding how to address changes in behavior takes time. Clear, calm communication is the first step toward relieving stress for the person with dementia, and it’s important not to take their behavior personally. Dementia is the cause for these changes, not the person.
Resist the urge to argue with someone who has dementia. Instead, validate their concerns. You do not always have to be “right,” and accepting blame when you can may give the person a better sense of control and reduce their frustration.
For example, if someone who has not worked in years is fixated on going into the office, refrain from saying, “You don’t work there anymore.” Instead, focus on what they may be feeling. They may just want to feel productive.
Offer a distraction with a task they can help complete, like feeding the dog or organizing family pictures. This can give them a sense of accomplishment they are craving.
Support and stay flexible
Dementia is challenging because it continually evolves. Behavior and attitudes change, as do their response to your communication and actions. It is normal as a caregiver to feel overwhelmed, tired, guilty and even angry.
Remember, if the behavior isn’t harmful or causing an issue, let it go. Your flexibility and validation may be what they need in that moment to relax. When possible, redirect to an activity they enjoy such as listening to music, going for a walk or doing a chore together.
By responding with patience, validation and empathy, you can create a calmer, more supportive environment for a loved one.
To make an appointment at the Smith Alzheimer’s Center’s Memory Clinic, call 217.545.8000. To learn more about the Smith Alzheimer’s Center at SIU Medicine, visit our website siumed.org/alz