Do your loved ones have dementia, or perhaps, you suspect that they might have dementia? If the answer is yes, you (like many others) may be wondering if their recent changes in behavior are due to their dementia. Read this article to know more about dementia behaviors and other related information.
Dementia Changes Behavior
As someone’s dementia worsens, they may begin to act in ways that others find difficult to comprehend. This can be one of the most challenging elements of living with dementia, both for the individual and others around them. In fact, changes in behavior are sometimes the first indicator of dementia.
They might appear gradually in some people and be difficult to recognize at first. On the other hand, others may experience more abrupt shifts in their behavior. But to put it simply, unfortunately, dementia does change people’s behavior and may cause your loved ones to act in ways that seem out of character.
And this can mean changes in your loved one’s habits and personality as well. For example, your loved ones may no longer be able to perform things they love or pursue their hobbies without assistance, or they may exhibit depressive symptoms.
Reasons for Behavioral Changes
While it is true that dementia can cause changes in the behavior of your loved ones, it is important to know the specific reason why they behave differently. After all, behavior change is a symptom of dementia, but it can also be due to another factor or reason. Dissatisfaction or anxiety about how dementia affects them (such as language problems or memory loss) can be one such reason.
Your loved one’s emotional and physical well-being, as well as their difficulties with orientation, can also cause negative changes in their behavior. Not to mention, inadequate amount and quality of contact with other people and their physical surroundings may also cause negative behavioral changes.
If your loved ones experience a sense of being out of control, frustration with the way others are behaving, or a feeling that they’re not being listened to, they are also likely to experience behavioral changes.
Different Types of Behavior
Your loved one’s behavior may alter in a variety of ways as a result of their reaction to various requirements. You may have heard these referred to as ‘difficult behaviors.’ However, we refer to them as ‘challenging behavior’ instead. It is critical to realize that your loved one is not attempting to be difficult.
The behavior can be as difficult for them as it is for others who assist them. With that said, here are some of the most typical changes in one’s behavior due to dementia. Constantly repeating or behaving in a habitual manner is one such behavior type.
Following, trailing, and checking are some other behavior changes. Some others with dementia, on the other hand, may exhibit hiding, hoarding, and loss of their possessions. Loss of inhibitions is another behavior change.
Another common “challenging behavior” of those with dementia is restlessness and accusing agitation. This may also take the form of abrasive behavior. In addition, sundowning, sleep disruption, and night waking are some other typical behavior changes. Lastly, social isolation is another common behavior change that many, including your loved ones, might experience.
