Understanding your loved one's behaviors? (Alzheimer's Behaviors)

If your mother, father, or someone close to you has Alzheimer's disease, only you know how difficult it can be. With this disease, they gradually lose their memory, thinking, and reasoning abilities. As the disease progresses, they may even forget words and become unable to perform daily tasks properly. They may even lose the ability to communicate as we know it.

But, if you understand the reasons behind these behaviors and learn to respond to them appropriately, this journey will be a little easier for you. Brain changes are not the only reason for these behaviors. Their behavior is another language that speaks to us. If we pay close attention to it, we can understand a lot about their feelings, pains, and needs. Let's talk about these common behaviors and what they mean.

Why are they suddenly agitated and angry? (Agitation)

As Alzheimer's disease progresses, you may notice that your loved one is constantly agitated, angry, and restless. They may be restless, restless, or restless. They may be wandering around, unable to sleep at night, verbally abusive, or even physically aggressive. While it may seem like there is no reason for this, they may actually be trying to tell you something.

Look at the table below. Ask yourself these questions.

If this behavior persists despite all of this, and even in a calm environment, consult your doctor . He or she may be able to check for an underlying health problem.

Why are they hiding things?

You may have noticed your loved one rummaging through cupboards, drawers, and perhaps hiding things in strange places around the house. There may be a simple reason for this. But it could also be a symptom of something else.

• Do they think they're missing something?
• Can they tell you what they are looking for?
• Are they bored? Are they hungry? Do they need anything else?

You may not be able to stop this behavior, so it's important to think about ways to protect them. Remove the following items from their reach, or keep them safely locked away.

• Dangerous things: things like sharp weapons, matches.
• Toxic things: medicines, cleaning chemicals.
• Expired or spoiled food.
• Dirty things.
• Valuable things: money, jewelry.
• Important documents.

Why do they not stay in one place but go for a walk? (Wandering)

They may forget where they are even after walking a short distance from home. This can lead to wandering away from home. This can become a regular occurrence.

As well as trying to understand this behaviour, you should also take steps to protect your loved one . It is important to put extra locks on doors, have them carry an ID card or bracelet, and inform neighbours and local police about this.

Why do we see and hear things that are not really there? (Hallucinations)

Your loved one may say they feel, see, or hear things that aren't there. They may even seem scared. We call these hallucinations. These are often the result of changes in the brain caused by Alzheimer's disease. But there can be other causes.

• Kidney or bladder infections
• Dehydration - lack of water in the body
• Pain
• Alcohol or drug use
• Vision or hearing impairment
• Some medications used

So, when they say something like that, don't go arguing with them about whether it's true or not. Instead, think about these things:

• Do they hear a sound that they misinterpret?
• Is it something that's on TV?
• Do they see light or shadow?
• Have you ever seen yourself in a mirror?
• Was it a dream, or an old memory?

If you think there is another reason for this, you can address it.

Why do you say or do the same thing over and over again?

Your loved one may say or do the same thing or the same word over and over again. They may ask the same question ten times a day. They are not doing this to annoy you.

• Are they bored?
• Are they looking for comfort? Safety?
• Does doing that make them feel familiar?
• Are they worried or frustrated about something?

Instead of focusing on what they say or do, try to think about how they are feeling at the time . Answer their questions patiently. If the behavior doesn't bother anyone, accept it and work with it.

Why does illness worsen at night? (Sundowning)

You may have noticed that your loved one's restlessness and confusion increase in the evening and at night. This is called 'sundowning'. Although the exact cause of this has not been found, there are a few things to consider:

• Are you mentally or physically tired all day?
• Is their body's internal clock out of whack?
• Do they see strange lights or shadows?
• Can't tell the difference between dreams and reality?
• Maybe the amount of sleep they need has decreased with age?

By trying to identify the causes of this confusion as the day goes on, you can find ways to help. When these behaviors become more frequent, keep a journal of what happened during the day. This will help you identify any patterns (triggers) that may be causing this.

Depression and Alzheimer's

It can sometimes be difficult to tell if someone with Alzheimer's is suffering from depression. But 4 out of 10 people with Alzheimer's experience significant levels of depression. Look for these signs:

• Apathy.
• Losing interest in things you used to enjoy.
• Withdrawal from friends and society.
• Preferring to be alone.
• Difficulty concentrating.

If you have any doubts about this, see a doctor immediately. Treating depression can improve their quality of life.

Why do you refuse to take a bath or get dressed?

As the disease progresses, they may need your help with things like bathing, brushing their teeth, and getting dressed. This can make them feel embarrassed and angry. If you see that they are unable to meet these basic needs, you need to find ways to help.

How can I help with bathing?

• Are they afraid to bathe? Or can't they?
• Are they embarrassed by your help? If so, what can you do to reduce that embarrassment?
• Is the water temperature suitable for them?

How can I help you get dressed?

• Do you need help choosing clothes? If so, can you arrange the clothes for me?
• Would clothes with Velcro or zippers be easier to put on instead of buttons and shoelaces?
• Similarly, is it good to keep a few sets of clothes that they like?

The best way to respond to this behavior is

The most important thing is to remember that your loved one may not be able to express their needs in words. But you can tell by their behavior and facial expressions that something is wrong. By staying calm and trying to understand the situation, you can identify areas where you can help.

Follow a three-step approach to this:

1. Validate: Let them know that you understand what they're feeling and that you respect it. Saying something like, "You sound scared, don't you?" "You sound angry" can help ease their anxiety.

2. Reassure: Let them know you are with them. Speak in a calm voice. Listen to what they have to say. Show them that it is normal to feel scared or angry.

3. Redirect: Reassure them and redirect their attention to another positive activity or conversation they enjoy. You could say something like, "Shall we have some tea together?" "Shall we listen to your favorite song?"

Finally, if you are very concerned about these behaviors, talk to your doctor. There are specialists (Neurologists, Psychiatrists), therapists, and counselors who can help with this.

Alzheimer's, Alzheimer's disease, Alzheimer's behaviors, elder care, memory loss, dementia, mental health, sundowning, wandering