Recently, a lady, Sally, (not her real name) caring for her Father in Law living with dementia came to us with a problem she’d encountered and was looking for help and advice in finding a solution.
Whilst in a public lift, Phil had begun to stroke a lady’s back who was stood in front of him which had caused some awkwardness and misunderstanding of his intentions. He had also made personal comments about a family members body size and shape which was upsetting to them.
Sally was looking for something that she, as a carer, could use to show people when Phil (not his real name) did something publicly which others might deem to be inappropriate, which would discreetly explain his condition, whilst also maintaining his dignity.
Happily we were able to recommend to her a pack of our Please be Patient Carer’s cards which have been designed specifically to help carers of people living with dementia explain their condition in social situations to reduce any awkwardness, confusion or embarrassment of any misunderstood behaviours in a polite and discrete way.
When we spoke to Sally again to ask if the cards had been useful, she responded,
‘They’ve been brilliant, can you get them in different languages?!’ We’re currently checking this out for her! 😊 (Case study to follow too!)
Our MD Jo, helped care for her own Mum, living with vascular dementia for over 6 years, so we completely get that living with dementia can be a complex journey, both for individuals affected by the condition and their caregivers. One of the most significant challenges faced by caregivers is dealing with behaviours that others may deem inappropriate or challenging, or emotional responses as we prefer to use.
In this article, we explore practical tips and insights on how to effectively manage and address emotional responses in people living with dementia using PBS (Positive Behavioural Support).
If you’re caring for someone living with dementia and would like to learn more tips and advice on how to help people live well with dementia, have you downloaded our free holistic guide, How to Live Well with Dementia?
Jo is a firm believer in the saying:
By understanding the importance of positive behavioural support and implementing effective strategies, it’s possible to create a nurturing and empowering environment for individuals living with dementia.
Understanding Emotional Responses in Dementia:
Emotional Responses are actions or reactions that individuals with dementia may display, which can be difficult to understand or manage. These behaviours may include aggression, agitation, wandering, disinhibition, sundowning, and hoarding. It's important to remember that these behaviours are not deliberate, but rather a result of the changes happening in the brain due to dementia.
The Role of Positive Behavioural Support:
Positive behavioural support is an approach that focuses on understanding the underlying causes of emotional responses and addressing them proactively. It involves creating a supportive environment, effective communication techniques, tailoring activities, and providing personalised care. By shifting from reactive to proactive approaches, caregivers can promote positive interactions and reduce the frequency and intensity of emotional responses.
Creating a Calm and Supportive Environment:
Designing the physical space in a dementia-friendly manner can significantly impact the behaviour of individuals with dementia. Creating a calm and safe environment involves reducing noise and excessive stimuli, establishing routines and structure, and ensuring proper lighting and clear signage. By optimising the physical surroundings, caregivers can minimise triggers for emotional responses.
Effective Communication Techniques:
Communication plays a crucial role in managing emotional responses. Active listening, empathy, and non-verbal cues can help individuals living with dementia feel understood and validated. Additionally, validation therapy, which involves acknowledging and accepting the emotions and experiences of individuals with dementia, can foster a sense of dignity and reduce agitation.
Tailoring Activities and Engagement:
Engaging individuals living with dementia in meaningful activities can redirect their focus and reduce emotional responses. By identifying their interests and preferences, caregivers can provide personalised activities that promote a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
Reminiscence therapy, involving discussions and activities related to past experiences, can also be beneficial in enhancing well-being and reducing agitation.
Providing Person Centred Care:
Understanding individual triggers and patterns of behaviour is crucial for effective management. Person-centred care plans that prioritize the individual's preferences and autonomy can help reduce challenging behaviours. Providing choices and involving individuals in decision-making processes can empower them and foster a sense of control.
Seeking Professional Support:
Caregivers should not hesitate to seek professional support and guidance when managing emotional responses in dementia. Healthcare professionals, including geriatric specialists and dementia experts, can provide valuable insights and recommendations. They can also assist with medication management, if necessary, to address specific behavioural symptoms.
The Importance of Self-Care for Caregivers:
We understand completely that caring for individuals living with dementia can be physically and emotionally demanding. Caregivers need to prioritise their own well-being to provide the best care possible. Recognising signs of caregiver stress and burnout is essential. Implementing self-care strategies, seeking support from caregiver networks, and accessing resources and organizations dedicated to caregiver support can help caregivers maintain their own health and resilience.
Managing emotional responses in individuals living with dementia requires a comprehensive and compassionate approach. By embracing positive behavioural support strategies, creating a supportive environment, and implementing person-centred care plans, caregivers can help individuals living with dementia experience a better quality of life. It's crucial to remember that each person's journey with dementia is unique, and a patient and empathetic approach is vital. With the right strategies and support, caregivers can navigate the challenges of dementia and provide the best possible care for the people they support.
Image source: Pexels
