Understanding Dementia Behaviors in Senior Citizens

Dementia affects an estimated 5.5 million people age 65 and older. Some of the more common forms of dementia in the elderly include Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Parkinson’s disease with dementia, and many others. MediNurse, the premiere provider of private duty nursing care, educates the public on common dementia behaviors and how to care for a loved one with dementia.

Alzheimer’s disease accounts for up to 70% of dementia cases in the elderly and aging is the single biggest risk factor for the development of dementia. Dementia patients often experience memory loss, find it difficult to think clearly and communicate effectively, and can experience a complete change in their personality and behavior. Symptoms usually develop slowly and get worse over time, eventually becoming severe enough to interfere with daily tasks.

In any relationship, communication is key; however, effectively communicating with someone who has dementia can be challenging at best. MediNurse recommends 7 helpful tips for communicating in a way that improves the quality of the relationship:

1. Set a positive mood for interaction. Speak to your loved one in a pleasant tone of voice while using facial expressions and physical touch to show feelings of affection.
2. State your message clearly. Speak slowly, use simple words and short sentences with a reassuring tone. Don’t use pronouns; use the names of people and places.
3. Ask simple, answerable questions. Ask one question at a time; those with yes or no answers work best.
4. Be patient. Wait for your loved one’s reply. Always strive to listen carefully and consider the meaning behind the words.
5. When the going gets tough, distract and redirect. If your loved one becomes upset or agitated, try changing the subject, or the activity or the environment.
6. Remember the good old days. Many people with dementia may not remember what happened in the last hour but they can remember what happened 40 years earlier. Ask questions that rely on long-term memory instead of short-term. Focus on the positive.
7. Always maintain your sense of humor. Use humor whenever possible. People with dementia retain their social skills and will love to laugh with you.

MediNurse is St. Louis’ premier provider of private duty nursing services. MediNurse provides services that are customized to the individual needs of the client or patient and loved ones to ensure the best care possible. For more information, call 314-781-2800 or visit www.medinurse.com.