Behavior Management Techniques for Residents with Dementia Presented by HomeCare Rehab and Nursing LLC

Challenging Behaviors –Suspiciousness Memory loss Anxiety Confusion –Uncooperativeness –Loss of appropriate communication skills Privacy Loss of dignity Resentment about being told what to do Copyright © 2003

Behavior Management –Good Activities program Provides enjoyment Boosts self-esteem Provides stimulation Reduces attention seeking –Positive nonverbal communication Soothing tone of voice Warmth, smile Non-hurried Gentle touch –Structure, Routine, Consistency Copyright © 2003 Remember good communication techniques and to get into the visual field when speaking!

Challenging Behaviors –Wandering Looking for something or someone- home Restlessness Anxiety Pain Confusion Depression Copyright © 2003 Remember that these residents are creatures of habit! Change of any kind can result in a drastic attempt to cope- resulting in “behaviors”.

Challenging Behaviors –Combativeness, agitation Loss of communication skills Fearful Confused –Repetitive actions Pacing Asking the same question Desire for reassurance, socialization Copyright © 2003

Behavior Management –Observe for triggers Noisy atmosphere, certain staff or resident Family visits Discomfort, pain, hunger, toileting issues Medication side-effects –Modify Environment Allow for pacing (continuous hallway) Disguise exits Provide distractions, rummaging boxes, activities Copyright © 2003

Challenging Behaviors –Combative, aggressive behaviors Decreased interaction with environment –Hypersensitive to touch –Rigid posturing, resistant to movement Poor understanding of task –Shouting, banging, self-injury Internal/ self-stimulation Copyright © 2003

Behavior Management –Limit distractions and noise –Music, massage, exercise –Follow their lead…Seeking stimulation? Companionship? Reassurance? Comfort? –Introduce touch slowly with soft voice- remember the visual field! –Be ready to try new interventions if one doesn’t work…try again later. Copyright © 2003

Behavioral Interventions for All Residents Ask yourself: What is this person trying to tell me? What is the feeling beneath the behavior? Has anything changed? FYI: Approximately 90% of behaviors are triggered by caregiver approach or something added to or missing from the environment. Copyright © 2003