Why Are They Doing That? Understanding Dementia Behaviors

Discover what dementia behaviors may be communicating and learn practical ways to respond with greater understanding and less frustration. Repeating the same question. Refusing a shower. Pacing. Becoming upset for seemingly no reason. Wanting to “go home” when they are already home. Dementia can bring behaviors that are confusing, frustrating, and sometimes difficult for families to understand. But what if the behavior is actually trying to tell us something? In this session of BCN Presents: Navigating Dementia, we’ll look beyond the behavior to explore the possible needs, emotions, environmental triggers, and changes in the brain that may be causing it. Participants will learn practical ways to respond to common dementia-related behaviors, reduce frustration, recognize possible triggers, and communicate in ways that can help create greater comfort and connection. Rather than simply asking, “How do I stop this behavior?” we’ll begin asking a more helpful question: “What might this person be trying to communicate?” This class is designed for family caregivers, friends, and anyone who wants to better understand and support a person living with dementia. Presented by Bluegrass Care Navigators (BCN) as part of the Navigating Dementia community education series.