When we hear the word “dementia,” our minds often jump straight to memory loss—forgetting names, misplacing keys, or struggling to recall recent events. But for those who’ve walked alongside someone living with dementia, the reality is far more profound and often heartbreaking. Dementia transforms not just memory but how a person experiences their entire world—altering behaviours, communication, and even their very sense of self.
Repetitive questioning, wandering, aggression, and even hallucinations are all common dementia behaviours that can leave caregivers feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to respond. Whether you’re caring for a spouse, a parent, or a dear friend, understanding the behaviours dementia can cause can help you prepare for what’s ahead and respond with empathy. But these are just a few of the many behaviours that can arise.
This article will explain the common dementia symptoms, why they happen, and, most importantly, what you can do to ease the situation for both your loved one and yourself.
What Causes Behavioural Changes in Dementia?
Dementia is not one disease but a group of conditions that affect brain function. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, followed by vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia, among others.
As dementia progresses, the brain struggles to process information the way it once did. People may have trouble interpreting sights, sounds, and even social cues, which can lead to changes in behaviour and reactions to everyday situations.
Common reasons behind dementia-related behaviours include:
- Memory loss and confusion
- Difficulty communicating needs
- Sensory overload (noisy, unfamiliar, or busy environments)
- Pain or discomfort they can’t express
- Fear, anxiety, or frustration
Recognising these causes helps you shift your mindset from “They’re being difficult” to “They’re doing the best they can with what they’re experiencing.”
Most Common Dementia Behaviours
Let’s examine the dementia behaviours you are most likely to encounter and how to interpret them.
1. Memory Loss and Confusion
Memory impairment is a hallmark of dementia, often leading to confusion and disorientation. Individuals may forget recent events, misplace items, or struggle to recognise familiar people and places.
This confusion can result in repetitive questioning and frustration as the patient grapples with gaps in their memory. Although these lapses may be mild in the early stages of dementia, they typically become more pronounced in the later stages.
2. Repetitive Behaviours
Engaging in repetitive actions—such as asking the same question multiple times, repeating stories, or performing the same task over and over—is common for people with dementia. These behaviours may stem from memory loss, a need for comfort, or environmental factors. While often harmless, they can be distressing for caregivers and may indicate underlying needs or anxieties.
3. Agitation and Restlessness
Many people with dementia may become aggressive, agitated, and restless, manifesting as pacing, fidgeting, or an inability to settle. Various factors, including environmental changes, physical discomfort, or unmet needs can trigger this mood and behaviours.
Such restlessness can be particularly challenging in the late afternoon or evening, a phenomenon known as “sundowning, ” when symptoms worsen as the day progresses.
Caring for a loved one with dementia can be challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. Contact us today to learn how our compassionate team can support you and your family.
4. Aggression and Anger
Both verbally and physically aggressive behaviour can occur in individuals with dementia. These outbursts may arise suddenly and can be triggered by frustration, confusion, or perceived threats. It’s important to remember that such behaviours are often expressions of unmet needs or discomfort rather than intentional acts.
5. Withdrawal and Social Isolation
As dementia progresses, individuals may withdraw from social interactions and activities they once enjoyed. This withdrawal can result from difficulties in communication, fear of embarrassment, or a lack of interest. Social isolation can further exacerbate feelings of loneliness and depression, impacting overall well-being.
6. Sleep Disturbances
Disruptions in sleep patterns are prevalent among individuals with dementia. They may experience difficulty falling asleep, frequent awakenings during the night, or excessive daytime sleepiness. These disturbances can lead to increased confusion and agitation, affecting both the individual and their caregivers.
7. Sundowning
Sundowning refers to the worsening of behavioural symptoms, such as increased confusion, anxiety, and agitation, during the late afternoon and evening.
The exact cause is not well understood, but factors like fatigue, low lighting, and disruption of the body’s internal clock may contribute. Sundowning can be particularly challenging for caregivers, as it often disrupts evening routines and sleep.
8. Hallucinations and Delusions
Some individuals with dementia may experience hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there) or delusions (firmly held false beliefs). These signs can be distressing and may lead to paranoia or fear. Hallucinations and delusions are more common in certain types of dementia, such as Lewy body dementia.
9. Wandering
Wandering is a behaviour where individuals with dementia wander, which can be dangerous if they leave their home or care facility unattended. Wandering may result from confusion, boredom, or the need to fulfill former routines. Ensuring a safe environment is crucial to prevent potential injuries or getting lost.
10. Loss of Inhibition
Dementia can lead to changes in social behaviour, including a loss of inhibition. Individuals may say inappropriate things, disrobe in public, or make offensive comments. These actions result from the deterioration of the brain’s ability to regulate behaviour and understand social norms.
11. Hoarding
Some individuals with dementia may exhibit hoarding behaviours, such as collecting and storing items excessively. This behaviour may stem from a need for security or due to memory issues, leading them to believe items are lost or will be needed later. Hoarding can create cluttered and unsafe living environments.
12. Shadowing
Shadowing involves the person with dementia closely following their caregiver, often mimicking their actions or becoming anxious when the caregiver is out of sight. This behaviour may be due to insecurity, fear, or a need for reassurance. While it can be taxing for caregivers, understanding the underlying need for comfort is essential.
13. Inappropriate Sexual Behaviour
Some individuals with dementia may display inappropriate sexual behaviours, such as making lewd comments or inappropriate touching.
Dealing with this kind of behaviour may be complicated for a caregiver or anyone. These actions are typically a result of the disease’s impact on judgment and impulse control rather than intentional misconduct.
Empower yourself with knowledge and support to understand dementia behaviours. Get in touch with our team to explore care options that prioritise your loved one’s well-being.
14. Resistance to Care
As dementia progresses, individuals may resist seeking care and assistance with daily activities like bathing, dressing, or eating. This resistance can stem from confusion, fear, or a desire to maintain independence. Understanding and addressing the root causes can help manage this behaviour.
How Dementia Behaviours Affect Caregivers?
While it’s essential to focus on the people living with dementia, we can’t ignore how these behaviours impact caregivers. Caring for someone with dementia can be emotionally and physically taxing. You may feel frustrated, exhausted, guilty, or helpless at times.
Challenging behaviours like aggression, wandering, staring or repeated questioning can be challenging. Many caregivers report feeling like they’re “always on,” watching for signs of distress, preventing accidents, and trying to meet ever-changing needs.
It’s also common for caregivers to feel isolated, especially if friends or family don’t fully understand the realities of dementia care.
If you’re a caregiver, know this: You’re doing one of the most important and demanding jobs there is. You deserve support just as much as the person you’re caring for. Seeking help—whether from a professional like WiseChoice, a support group, or family members—is not a sign of weakness; it’s a vital part of sustaining both your health and the quality of care you provide.
How to Respond: Strategies That Work
Step Into Their World
Instead of correcting them, enter their reality. If they believe it’s 1972 and they need to catch a bus, don’t immediately correct them. Ask about where they’re going, and gently redirect.
Use the 3 R’s: Reassure, Redirect, Re-engage
- Reassure: Provide comfort by letting them know they are safe and cared for.
- Redirect: Gently change the subject or activity to divert attention from distressing thoughts or behaviours.
- Re-engage: Offer familiar, comforting things that you can do with dementia patients, such as folding towels, listening to a favorite song, or looking through photo albums to promote a sense of purpose and calm.
Be Flexible and Patient
Recognise that what works one day may not work the next. Adapt your approach as needed, and avoid taking behaviours personally; they are manifestations of the disease, not reflections of the individual’s feelings toward you.
Avoid Triggers When Possible
Identify and minimise environmental stressors that can cause distress, such as loud noises, cluttered spaces, or unfamiliar settings. Creating a calm, predictable environment can help reduce agitation and confusion.
Communicate Clearly
Use simple sentences, speak slowly, and allow ample time for the individual to process information and respond. Non-verbal cues like pointing or demonstrating can also aid understanding. Maintaining eye contact and using a gentle tone can further enhance communication.
Conclusion
Caring for a loved one with dementia can be challenging, but with the proper dementia support, understanding, and compassion, it’s possible to navigate these problematic behaviours with grace and confidence. At Wise Choice In-Home Care, we’re committed to providing personalised, professional care, answering the common questions that you have about dementia, and ensuring your loved one’s comfort, dignity, and well-being every step of the way.
If you or someone you love is facing the challenges of dementia, contact us today. Our compassionate team is here to help, providing the support you need so you can focus on what matters most—your loved one’s happiness, comfort, and peace of mind. We’re here to help make the journey easier.
