Recognizing Behavioral Changes in Seniors with Alzheimer’s
Talem Home Care & Placement Services
For more information about the author, click to view their website: Talem Home Care
Dec 12, 2024
Colorado - Boulder County
Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's can be challenging, but Alzheimer's and dementia care offers vital support and resources as the disease progresses.
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- To view the original version of this article visit www.talemhomecare.com/broomfield/recognizing-behavioral-changes-in-seniors-with-alzheimers/
- Seniors Blue Book was not involved in the creation of this content.
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