Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, and behavior changes in Alzheimer’s are common. Dementia is a general term for brain diseases that cause memory, thinking, and behavior problems. These diseases also can affect mood and the ability to perform routine tasks.
An estimated 6 million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease. The risk of developing Alzheimer’s increases with age, but it can also strike people in their 30s or 40s.
When Does Alzheimer’s Disease Affect Behavior? Personality Changes in Alzheimer’s
If your loved one has Alzheimer’s, you may notice changes in their behavior. This is normal for people with dementia. You can help by learning about common behaviors in Alzheimer’s patients and how to handle them.
Behavior changes in Alzheimer’s often occur early in the disease. They may include:
- Personality changes
- Losing interest in activities
- Changes in sleeping patterns
- Forgetfulness
- Trouble understanding familiar words and objects
- Getting lost in familiar places
The stages of Alzheimer’s disease usually begin with mild forgetfulness and progress to more severe symptoms as the condition worsens.
Common Behavior in Patients who have Alzheimer’s Disease
There is a common behavior pattern in patients with Alzheimer’s, although symptoms vary.
A person with Alzheimer’s may become confused, disoriented, and lose the ability to recognize family members. They also may have trouble communicating or expressing themselves.
Common behavioral symptoms of Alzheimer’s include:
- Agitation
- Frustration or anger
- Loss of interest in activities
- Changes in eating habits
- Forgetfulness about personal hygiene
- Confusion about time, place, or identity
Memory loss is one of the first signs of Alzheimer’s disease. When it starts, it usually involves recent events — like where you left your keys. But as it progresses, it can affect long-term memories, like forgetting things that happened years ago or not recalling important life events.
As the disease progresses, people with advanced Alzheimer’s may become less aware of their surroundings and have trouble performing everyday tasks.
Triggers for Dementia-Related Behaviors
If your loved one is living with dementia or Alzheimer’s, you probably know some triggers provoke upsetting or dangerous behaviors common in those living with memory loss disorders.
Loud noises and confusion can trigger agitation or aggression in people with dementia. If possible, keep the TV off, avoid going out when it’s noisy, and reduce background noise.
Loneliness and boredom can make people with Alzheimer’s feel anxious or depressed, leading to aggressive behavior. Keep your loved one busy by:
- Scheduling regular visits from friends or family members
- Offering new activities
- Encouraging the person to spend time outside
- Adopting a pet for companionship
All of these can help alleviate loneliness and boredom.
Another trigger is hunger. People with Alzheimer’s may become anxious if they haven’t eaten recently. They may also become frustrated if they struggle with their motor skills when trying to feed themselves.
Many people with dementia also become tired easily because they may be unable to find ways to relax during the day. This can make them irritable and trigger behaviors that are difficult to manage.
Managing Alzheimer’s Disease as a Caregiver or Loved One
As a caregiver for someone with Alzheimer’s, you’ll need to manage your loved one’s behavior to encourage both of you to feel safe, included, and respected. Here are some tips for handling challenging behaviors as your loved one begins to show symptoms of Alzheimer’s:
Listen to the person
Try to understand what they are trying to tell you before you respond. Don’t interrupt or argue with the person, even if they are angry or upset about something. This will only make things worse.
Don’t take it personally
Your loved one isn’t acting this way because of anything you’re doing wrong. These behaviors are a result of the disease. Try not to think about it as personal attacks against you. Instead, focus on how best to manage the situation without escalating it.
Give simple instructions, one step at a time. If your loved one has trouble following directions with multiple steps, provide just enough information so they can do it without getting confused by additional details that may not be relevant.
Experience Exceptional Memory Care at Caring Places Management
Caring Places Management is a leading provider of exceptional memory care and Alzheimer’s care in the Pacific Northwest. We offer a wide range of individualized care plans designed to meet the needs of our residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.
Our staff members are specially trained to help your loved ones with any challenges they may be facing due to memory loss. From medication management to daily living skills training, our staff can assist with anything that helps your loved one live comfortably.
To learn more about our approach to long-term care for residents with dementia and Alzheimer’s, contact our team to schedule a free tour of our communities.
