Elderly Behavior Change

Memory problems and dementia-related behavior changes can get you into some sticky situations. As a caregiver, I’ve discovered a simple solution for making outings less stressful and more successful: “dementia companion cards.”

When you think about the telltale signs of dementia, memory loss is often top of mind. But marked behavior change in a senior may be a dangerous sign of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) that has nothing to do with memory.

One sign of the aging brain is repeating stories and questions more often. While there is no quick fix, a change in attitude and some proven strategies can help you keep your cool and preserve your loved one’s dignity.

Whether you are dealing with an angry, hostile elder or seeking answers on how to deal with irrational aging parents, we’ve compiled 10 difficult behaviors that elders exhibit and tips for coping with each of them.

We’ve compiled experienced caregivers’ best tips for understanding why dementia patients wander and strategies to combat this dangerous dementia behavior.

Anosognosia is a common symptom of dementia that prevents a senior from acknowledging their diagnosis and cognitive impairment.

Sundowning can happen with dementia patients year-round, but during autumn and winter, the effects can be magnified due to shorter, darker days. Be aware of the causes of and treatments for this dementia-related behavior.

The progression of her Alzheimer's disease over the last eight years had been pretty much textbook. Still, nothing could have prepared us for the process of putting mom in memory care.

What a terrible condition dementia is. It takes the brain of a bright, loving, proud, communicative individual and turns it into a fog of progressive cognitive decline.

We tend to think of temper tantrums as only pertaining to small children or teens, but even the elderly act out at times. Learn what's behind these angry outbursts and how to best handle them without losing your own temper.

Many seniors doze off throughout the day to compensate for poor sleep at night. However, if your aging loved one spends most of their time sleeping instead of engaging in life, it could indicate a more serious underlying problem.

The mental changes that accompany Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia can dramatically alter a person's capacity for communication. Here are ten tips to for talking with a loved one who has Alzheimer's disease.

A hospital stay can seriously affect a senior’s health and independence. Understanding the common issues that occur during care transitions will help you and your loved one know what to expect and ensure the discharge process goes as smoothly as possible.

Seniors with urinary tract infections may not exhibit classic physical symptoms. Instead, confusion and mental and behavior changes can be the tell-tale signs of a UTI.

There are several diagnostic tools that doctors use to test for Alzheimer’s disease. If a senior is experiencing unusual memory problems, confusion or changes in behavior, it is important to make an appointment with their physician as soon as possible.

The early stage of dementia is often difficult to detect since symptoms and age of onset can vary. Keep an eye out for these warning signs.

Cognitive changes are a leading cause of dementia anger and aggression. Learn more about causes, coping strategies, and prevention here.

Dealing with negative elderly parents is tough. Some are chronic complainers, but there can be valid reasons for these difficult moods. Explore causes of complaining and negativity and identify when these behaviors are a red flag.

Learn what red flags to look for and advice on what to do if you think your parent has dementia.

Signs your parent may need help include sudden or significant changes in behavior, physical function, appearance, cognition, memory, or judgment.