Unraveling Alzheimer's: Managing Personality and Behavior Changes

Alzheimer’s disease affects the brain in ways that can lead to various behavioral changes. Common alterations include increased anxiety, depression, suspicion, agitation, and even aggression. Individuals may also exhibit behaviors such as wandering, pacing, hiding items, or experiencing hallucinations and delusions. It's crucial to recognize that these behaviors are symptoms of the disease, not intentional actions by the person. 

Strategies for Managing Behavioral Changes

Effectively managing these behavioral changes involves patience, empathy, and practical approaches:​

• Maintain a Routine: Establishing consistent daily schedules for activities like bathing, dressing, and eating can provide a sense of stability and reduce confusion. 

• Create a Calm Environment: Reducing noise and clutter, and keeping familiar objects and photographs around can help soothe and comfort the individual.

• Engage in Physical Activity: Encouraging regular physical activity, such as walks or simple exercises, can improve mood and promote better sleep.

• Use Distractions: Redirecting attention to enjoyable activities like listening to music, reading, or engaging in simple tasks can help manage agitation.

• Ensure Safety: Implement safety measures to prevent wandering and protect against potential hazards in the home. 

Enhancing Communication

Communication can become increasingly challenging as Alzheimer's progresses. To facilitate better interactions:​

• Use Clear Language: Speak slowly and use simple, direct sentences.

• Maintain Eye Contact: This helps in capturing attention and conveying sincerity.​

• Be Patient: Allow extra time for responses and avoid interrupting.​

• Avoid Arguing: If the person says something incorrect, gently redirect rather than correct.​

• Use Nonverbal Cues: Gestures, facial expressions, and touch can convey messages effectively when words fail. ​

Seeking Support

Caregiving can be emotionally and physically taxing. It's essential to seek support when needed. Resources such as the National Institute on Aging provide valuable information and assistance for caregivers. 

By understanding the behavioral changes associated with Alzheimer's and implementing compassionate caregiving strategies, you can enhance the quality of life for both the individual and yourself.

Discover compassionate Alzheimer’s care at Trinity Healthcare Services, where we understand behavior changes and support your loved one with patience, dignity, and respect every step of the way.

Stay tuned for our next post in our Unraveling Alzheimer's series, Coping with Agitation, Aggression and Sundowning.

Information provided by the National Institute on Aging at nia.nih.gov. Provided for general informational and promotional purposes only. This information is not intended to be and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Information on this website is not intended to create any physician–patient relationship, nor should it be considered a replacement for consultation with a healthcare professional. If, and to the extent that you choose to rely upon any information presented on this site, you do so voluntarily and solely at your own risk.