The Behaviors of Alzheimer's

There are three stages to Alzheimer’s and many behaviors that go along with the disease. As a caregiver, it’s important to understand what these behaviors are so that we can know what to expect as the disease progresses.
Aggression and Anger
This can be a reaction caused by frustration due to not being able to communicate effectively about their needs, or perhaps, they are in pain or experiencing physical discomfort. A person with Alzheimer’s also can have irregular sleep patterns and they may be tired, which can in turn, make a person more quick to anger. Sometimes an over stimulating situation such as loud noises or crowds can cause aggression. A possible side effect of medication can also be to blame.
As a caregiver,  try to identify the immediate cause of the behavior. Did something happen just before the outburst? Is the person in pain? Urinary tract infections are not uncommon in Alzheimer’s patients, so it’s important to rule this out as a cause of the stress.
Anxiety and Agitation
A direct result of Alzheimer’s is the inability to process new information.So, when their normal routine is interrupted and situations change, a person may experience profound anxiety and agitation. For example, there will most likely come a time when the patient must be moved out of their own home and into a home with a caregiver or a nursing home. This can cause fear as they are trying to understand and process the new routine. Caregivers may also change, or if new visitors or house guests arrive, they may experience anxiety with these changes.
It’s important listen to the patient and talk with them to help them understand what is going on. Again, don’t be dismissive of their feelings. Create a calm environment for them and tell them that they’ll be safe. Taking them outside for a short walk can also help calm their nerves.
Depression
Depression is very common among people with Alzheimer’s, especially during the early and middle stages. However, it can be difficult to diagnose. Symptoms such as withdrawing from friends, social activities and hobbies are common.
Caregivers can assist by creating a normal routine based on the best interest of the patient. For example, exercising early in the morning, celebrate special occasions and small successes, prepare their favorite food and let them help prepare for as long as they are able. Alzheimer’s patients, dare I say like everyone, want to feel like they are contributing to something and need to be reassured that they won’t be abandoned.
Hallucinations

When individuals with Alzheimer’s have a hallucination, they see, hear, smell, taste or even feel something that isn’t really there. They usually occur in later stages of Alzheimer’s.
If a loved one is hallucinating, it’s important to evaluate the situation. Will it lead to dangerous behavior and cause harm to you or themselves? What is causing the person be afraid? Try to reassure them that they are safe and acknowledge their feelings.Distracting them by turning on lights, changing the conversation or listening to their favorite music can also help.
Memory Loss and Confusion
The beginning stages of Alzheimer’s brings a mild case of memory loss and confusion such as difficulty recalling events and understanding full conversations. The later stages brings greater memory loss including names and faces of family members, and the purpose of basic utensils such a pen or a fork. These more severe changes are some of the most difficult for family members and caregivers to witness.
Caregivers can help by remaining calm in a given situation, sharing photos and not being condescending when the patient doesn’t recognize someone or doesn’t know what a fork is used for. Even going back in time with them when they think they are somewhere else, can having a calming effect on them.
Repetition
A person with Alzheimer’s may say or do something over and over. They may ask the same question that you just answered. People with dementia who ask questions repeatedly may be trying to express a specific concern, ask for help, or cope with frustration, anxiety or insecurity.
They may be trying to communicate with the family member or caregiver about something. If they do ask the same question repeatedly, you may need to answer the question over and over. Or, if they are still able to read, you can try writing down the answer so they can be reminded of whatever it is that they are nervous about. They may also be bored. If so, you can try a change of scenery for them or go for a short walk.
There is an old saying that goes something like, “You may not remember what someone said, but you’ll never forget how they made you feel.” Your support and understanding of a person with Alzheimer’s will always be appreciated.