Changed Behaviours

Dementia can cause changes in the behaviour of a person. Such changes are very common, but they can place enormous stress on families and carers. It can be upsetting when someone who has previously been gentle and loving behaves in a strange or aggressive way.

Causes of behaviour change
Dementia affects people in different ways. Understanding why someone is behaving in a particular way may help families and carers to cope.

There are many reasons why a person’s behaviour may change. Dementia is a result of changes that take place in the brain which affect the person’s memory, mood and behaviour. Sometimes behaviour may be related to these changes taking place in the brain. In other instances, the behaviour may be triggered by changes in the person’s environment, health or medication.

Where to begin – talk to your doctor
Always discuss concerns about behaviour changes with the family doctor, who will be able to check whether there is a physical illness or discomfort present and can provide some advice. The doctor will also be able to advise if there is an underlying psychiatric illness.

Changed behaviours are not deliberate
Coping with changed behaviours can be very difficult and is often a matter of trial and error. Always remember that the behaviour is not deliberate.

Anger and aggression are often directed against family members and carers because they are closest. The behaviour is out of the person’s control and they may be quite frightened by it. They need reassurance, even though it may often not appear that way.

Source: Dementia - changed behaviours - Better Health Channel