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As Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias progress, changes in behavior are common. These behaviors can include acting restless or worried, agitation, wandering, sleep disturbances, as well as lashing out physically or verbally. These changes can be upsetting and disruptive for caregivers. Remember that these behaviors are common, and they happen because of the disease. Caregivers and family members can learn ways to manage these behaviors.
• Speak calmly and be aware of your facial expressions and body language.
• Listen to the concerns of the person living with dementia. Avoid arguing or trying to reason.
• Offer reassurance that your family member or friend is safe, and you are there to help.
• Use other communication methods besides speaking, such as gentle touching.
• Explain what you are going to do before touching the person with dementia, or starting a new activity, such as when bathing or going to the doctor.
• Show that you understand your family member or friend is upset. For example, say, “You seem worried.”
• Take deep breaths and count to 10 if you
get upset.
• Enjoy a favorite caffeine-free snack or beverage.
• Watch a familiar TV show.
• Listen to music, sing, or dance.
• Go for a walk.
• Read something enjoyable.
• Do simple tasks, like folding laundry.
When restlessness, agitation, irritability, and confusion happen as daylight begins to fade, it’s known as sundowning. Being overly tired can increase late-afternoon and early-evening restlessness.
Try taking these steps with the person living with dementia to help prevent sundowning:
• Stick to a schedule.
• Arrange a time to go outside or sit by a window to get sunlight each day.
• Aim to be physically active each day, but don’t plan too many activities.
• Avoid alcoholic drinks and beverages with caffeine, such as coffee or cola, late in the day.
• Discourage long naps and dozing late in the day.
• Try to keep a routine, such as bathing, dressing, and eating at the same times each day.
• Reduce noise, clutter, or the number of people in the room.
• Play soothing music.
• Keep well-loved objects and photographs around the home.
• Adjust lighting, letting in natural light during the day, if possible, and try softer room lighting in the evening.
• Slow down and try to relax if you think your own worries may be causing concern.
• Try to keep a routine, such as bathing, dressing, and eating at the same times each day.
• Reduce noise, clutter, or the number of people in the room.
• Play soothing music.
• Keep well-loved objects and photographs around the home.
• Adjust lighting, letting in natural light during the day, if possible, and try softer room lighting in the evening.
• Slow down and try to relax if you think your own worries may be causing concern.
This information was obtained from the National Institute on Aging’s PDF titled: Tips for Managing Agitation, Aggression and Sundowning.
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Phone: (706) 542-2539
Fax: (706) 583-0109