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Dementia: Understanding Behavior Changes

Table of Contents


Overview

One of the most difficult problems to deal with as a caregiver is the sometimes strange or disruptive behaviors that people with dementia develop. They may wander, do certain things repeatedly, or insist on unusual routines or activities.

Some behaviors that seem strange or disturbing may be natural expressions of a person's lifelong habits or patterns. Understanding some of the influences on the behavior may help you deal better with behavior problems. Try to figure out the reason behind the behavior:

After you know more about what underlies apparently odd or disruptive behaviors, you will be better able to understand them and respond in a supportive way to the affected person. This can help make things easier for you both. You may find ways to change the person's environment and set up daily routines that make certain behaviors less of a problem. This may also help you avoid having to use medicine to control behavior.


Credits for Dementia: Understanding Behavior Changes

Current as of: June 24, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
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