Most people are aware of how dementia affects a senior’s memory. However, many don’t realize there are a variety of challenging behaviors that can develop as a result of the disorder. Here are five of these behaviors and tips on how you can help your aging loved one manage them.
1. Hoarding
For seniors with dementia, hoarding may be a response to feelings of isolation, loss of control, or even the fear of someone stealing their belongings. Instead of trying to get rid of everything at once, try to organize things as much as possible so your loved one can navigate around the house safely. If you throw something away, make sure to take it off the premises so your loved one doesn’t dig through the trash to retrieve it.
The cognitive challenges that accompany dementia often leave aging adults unable to manage everyday tasks, which puts their safety and health at risk. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of homecare families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
2. Swearing
Dementia typically causes personality changes and a loss of inhibitions. As a result, your loved one may start using language you wouldn’t expect him or her to use. Although it can be hurtful, try not to take any name-calling to heart. Determine if there’s a physical need or something in the surroundings that’s making your loved one agitated. You can also try to distract your loved one with a favorite activity.
3. Physical Aggression
Seniors with dementia can lash out physically as a response to feeling angry, confused, or scared. You can minimize physical outbursts with the following techniques:
- Make sure your loved one is aware of your presence and what you are about to do
- Offer distractions by engaging in conversation or letting your loved one hold a favorite object
- Don’t rush daily activities
- Pick and choose your battles—if something isn’t urgent, you can try again later
Caring for a loved one with dementia is a challenging task for anyone. The responsibilities can sometimes feel overwhelming, but help is available. Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted Richmond elder care provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Home Care Assistance is here to help.
4. Obsessive-Compulsive Behaviors
Repetitive behavior in dementia is usually the result of short-term memory loss or anxiety. In many cases, distraction and redirection to another activity can break the cycle. Antidepressants may also be beneficial in relieving obsessive-compulsive behaviors.
5. Wandering
Approximately 60 percent of seniors with dementia experience episodes of wandering. Your loved one may wander because of a physical need such as hunger or needing to go to the bathroom. You may be able to reduce wandering by providing a structured routine and opportunities for physical activity. If the wandering continues, you may need to implement safety precautions, such as door alarms and having your loved one wear an ID bracelet.
Dementia can be challenging for seniors to manage, but they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional dementia care. Richmond seniors can benefit greatly from the Cognitive Therapeutics Method (CTM), an activities-based program designed to promote cognitive health and delay the onset of dementia. CTM is included at no additional charge with any of the in-home care plans provided by Home Care Assistance. For compassionate, reliable in-home care, trust the experienced professionals from Home Care Assistance. Reach out to one of our dedicated Care Managers today at (804) 207-4746 to learn about the high quality of our in-home care services.