Typically, these are requests for help. Consequently, they may be a response to stress, seeking attention, or lack of stimulation. Therefore, these interventions can lessen the effect: • Unmet need – hunger or thirst? • Reassurance if intimate care is approaching – the distress may be in anticipation of care procedures • Allow for pain, infection, constipation or other medical issues • Allow for more rest periods, verbal agitation can cause excessive fatigue • Consider smell, noise, light, temperature or activity.
Typically, the person with dementia feels very frustrated by their inability to orientate to time, place and a person. Therefore, when they are confused, questions are an irritant. Consequently, asking someone who does not know where they are, where they are going, causes annoyance. Therefore, simplify tasks by dividing dressing, bathing, and grooming into smaller tasks to accommodate memory deficits.
When a person finds communication difficult there are many forms of non verbal communication that can be used. These include old photos, family videos/DVD’s, singing, hobbies (gardening, cooking, etc). People with dementia can be very dependent on body language and tone of voice for communication. Remember, to a person with dementia, if they cannot see something, then as far as they are concerned, it isn’t there.
The damage to the brain may result in difficulty using the correct words or understanding the spoken word. Consequently, communication skills should be addressed, as early in the process, as possible. As a result, individuals may be able to transmit meaningful communication. Therefore, your loved one maintains social interaction, function and a quality of life. The person with dementia may repeat a phrase or word over and over. Obviously, this is very wearisome and frustrating for the caregiver but communication can be enhanced by: Avoid extra external noise Avoid distractions Use short simple sentences Avoid open ended questions Use direct…
If you are not sure, call Senior Life Care Planning and we will give honest, independent and professional guidance to help you decide if we may be helpful to you, as you enter the legal, financial, and healthcare maze. You are not alone!
Senior Life Care Planning helps clients and their loved ones navigate the maze of legal, care and financial issues associated with dementia, Alzheimer’s Disease, or other disabling health issues.
More than 60 percent of those with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia will wander, and if a person is not found within 24 hours, up to half of individuals who wander will suffer serious injury or death. If you live with or care for a person with dementia, here are a few tips to help you reduce the risk of wandering: Move around and exercise to reduce anxiety, agitation and restlessness Ensure all basic needs are met (toileting, nutrition, thirst) Carry out daily activities, such as folding laundry or preparing dinner, to provide daily structure Reassure the person if…
Senior Life Care Planning helps clients and their loved ones navigate the maze of legal, care and financial issues associated with dementia, Alzheimer’s Disease, or other disabling health issues.
Frederick, MD 
301-663-9230
