Don’t be too quick to blame all changes in behavior on the dementia disease process.
Two examples:
1) Mom began sleeping most of the day, which was a big change for her. We had begun a new medication a few days earlier. The physician agreed to lower the dosage which enabled Mom to remain alert more of the day.
2) Mom refused to eat. A very astute long-term-care nurse told us this was common in the presence of a urinary tract infection. She ordered testing which indicated a severe infection. The day after antibiotics and pain meds were begun, Mom was eating again. Urinary infections can also cause other behavioral changes.
While not all problems are this easy to solve, this shows the importance of looking at the “big picture.” Keep an open mind and encourage your loved one’s healthcare providers to do the same. We can miss important clues that can bring much-needed relief if we narrowly focus on the behavior alone.
Some considerations:
**Are there basic needs that require attention – hunger, thirst, elimination problems or needs, fatigue?
**What is the health history of the patient? Migraine headaches, arthritis, urinary tract infections, constipation, dental issues, etc.?
**Be aware of medication side effects so you can notify your healthcare provider as needed.
**Are there hearing or visual impairments?
**Environmental triggers – loud noises, poor lighting, uncomfortable room temperature, change of routine, boredom, etc.
Please don’t be overwhelmed by all of this information. Just remember that the more you can learn about dementia, the better you will be as a caregiver.
(Email – allthingsdementia@gmail.com)
