Alzheimer’s is a complicated disease that often presents overwhelming issues for those providing care. As the disease progresses, people with Alzheimer’s typically communicate through behaviors as opposed to speech, and many times these types of behaviors can be of an inappropriate nature. Dealing with challenging Alzheimer’s behaviors can be difficult.
For example, a senior with more advanced Alzheimer’s disease might exhibit the following challenging Alzheimer’s behavior:
- Combativeness and agitation
- Inappropriate sexual behavior such as:
- Undressing or touching himself/herself in public
- Utilizing crude or obscene language
- Jealous accusations that a spouse is having an affair
- Hallucinations
- Depression
These types of behaviors can be embarrassing or troubling for Alzheimer’s caregivers, but they can also be extremely confusing and aggravating for the senior with Alzheimer’s, as he or she most likely does not understand why the behavior is regarded as inappropriate or why it is troubling to others.
As an Alzheimer’s caregiver, it is crucial to bear in mind that any distressing behaviors the senior shows are the result of the disease — or perhaps other health concerns or medications — not a representation of the person’s character. Also, often what appears to be sexually inappropriate behavior is really a manifestation of a non-sexual need, such as a need to use the restroom or a need for closeness.
If you cannot determine a reason for the older person’s behavior, try these solutions:
- Redirect the person to a favorite hobby or activity such as listening to music or looking through pictures in a photo album.
- Calmly, but rapidly, locate a private area like a bathroom or changing area if the senior begins to get undressed in public.
- Respond to feelings of lonesomeness or a need for being close with a kind pat or a hug and soothing conversation.
- Try increasing the level of exercise or physical activity the person gets.
- Consider practical solutions; for inappropriate undressing, buy special clothes designed with fasteners in the back for this particular reason, or try putting trousers or dresses on backwards.
When reacting to challenging Alzheimer’s behaviors:
- Respond calmly and matter-of-factly. Quarreling with or embarrassing the person can worsen the situation; try to be gentle and patient.
- Never overreact. Providing too much affection may prompt unwanted sexual behavior, while shouting or shaming may scare or confuse the person even more.
- Create a change, whether it is a new setting that does not allow for the behavior to be a reason for concern, or a new activity that redirects the person from the behavior altogether.
For further assistance with managing challenging Alzheimer’s behaviors for a senior you love, contact Compassionate Care Home Health Services. Our caregivers are fully trained and experienced in creative, effective dementia care practices, and we’re here to help whenever you need us. Just give us a call at 877.308.1212 to learn more about our dementia care in Midland, MI and the nearby communities.