Dementia- The Other Side Of The Fence

Dementia blog

[journeyofdementia]

I have had lots of requests for this post. I hope it helps some of you that are currently struggling with a loved one that is sundowning. As always, feel free to ask any questions that you may have.

What is sundowning?

Why does it happen?

These are two questions that family members ask all the time. Why does my loved one start showing signs of agitation, wandering and other difficult behavior in the late afternoons?

Sundowning is a set of behaviors that occur at the time of sunset. These behaviors may range from aggressiveness, anxiety, wandering and resistance to re-direction. Some patients can start these behaviors as early as 2-3 pm.

Why does it happen? The circadian rhythm becomes altered and there is a decrease in melatonin in the brain. Another reason is the amount of light exposure, noise levels, changes in environment and other night disruptions.

Sundowning can be managed with pharmacological interventions to help restore circadian rhythms and melatonin levels. Music therapy, aromatherapy and behavior modification can help some people. I will be honest though and say if you have a person that is sundowning with aggression and wandering then the music and aromatherapy will not benefit you at all. If redirection feels impossible and nothing seems to stop the exit-seeking then it may be best to ask the physician about starting a medication to help with the sundowning.

Even though the behaviors can become extreme it is important to remember to stay calm and redirect the best you can.

[journeyofdementia]

Understanding and Managing Difficult Behaviors

This topic can not get enough attention. Behavioral disturbances can cause strain on relationships, try your patience and leave family members desperate for help.

As previous discussed in a post, sundowning is a very common behavioral disturbance that occurs as the sun goes down. I will ask that you refer to my previous blog on this subject.

Aggression and Anger are also common behaviors that can be severe. Imagine the frustration of your loved one with the inability to complete daily tasks and communicate appropriately. Pain and overstimulation of the senses(loud TVs)may also cause agitation. If your loved one has agitation or aggression it is best to let it run its course, remember to stay calm, don’t take it personally, and use distractions.

Wandering is a heartbreaking behavior to experience. Most people with dementia are looking to go home even though they may be home. They are looking for loved ones that have passed away or trying to find something they think is lost. Family members can help by reducing stimuli/noise in the home, offer reassurance, and ensure patient is not in pain. Never argue with the person who has dementia. If they are looking for their husband Fred(who has been dead 10 years)then reassure them that Fred will be back after he gets off work. Remember we must go to them in their world because they are unable to come to ours!

Hallucinations are very difficult and sometimes scary for family members. The person who has dementia may see people that are not there (again a lot of people who have passed away). They may have conversations with them as if they can see and hear them. Sometimes this can be comforting to the person BUT some hallucinations can be scary. Some people may see or hear things that are very disturbing and may cry, hide or scream in fear. This is very difficult on the person and especially hard on the family.

Hallucinations stem from continuous changes in the brain. Try and keep the person calm, reassure and agree and keep the physician up to date on the severity for the hallucinations.

There are many more behaviors that may be exhibited with dementia and not all two people are the same. Breathe and stay patient because these will be trying times!

[journeyofdementia]

What are the symptoms of early dementia?

1.) Memory loss that may present such as difficulty managing money or a check book. It may be difficult for the person to remember appointments or dates. There will also be some difficulty with recall of short term memory. Misplacing items and forgetting what you went into a room for with the inability to retrace your steps in your mind.

2.) Language problems may present with forgetting words and making sentences. A person may substitute a wrong word while speaking. This make also effect reading and writing.

3.) Difficulty functioning with everyday tasks. Forgetting ingredients in a recipe that has been used for years. Forgetting how to work the stove. Getting dressed or buttoning a shirt.

4.)Judging distance and depth perception are also indicators of early onset dementia. Parking in a parking space and can’t judge the distance between cars. Depth perception could be climbing or descending stairs.

5.)Changes in personality or mood. This is often one of the first indicators of the beginning stages of dementia. The person may not understand humor as easily, withdrawn in social places. Difficulty carrying on a conversation that may have several topics being discussed. Depression.

This is not a complete list of early signs but any change in your loved one that may indicate a chance of dementia should be followed by a physician so a memory medication can be started as early as possible. 💜

[journeyofdementia]

The majority of the writings that I will share come from a place that is close to my heart...dementia. I will share knowledge, emotion and daily struggles that come along with a person that has dementia or cares for someone with dementia.

In some of the blogs, it will be referred to as The Fence. The dictionary defines the word fence as a barrier to mark a boundary that controls access or prevents escape. This in essence, describes what dementia does to an individual in life. It divides and sets boundaries that present barriers in the individuals life that ultimately prevent that person from an escape. The person is "fenced in" so to speak from reality, the things they know, the people they love and the very life they spent years building.

I know this all to well, due to my life has been devoted to nursing with a specialization in Alzheimer's/dementia patients. I will share my journey and insight into the world of dementia and the people that live with this disease daily. This blog will not be for the faint of heart. It will sometimes be sad and other times will be funny but always rewarding! Giving yourself daily to a person is the greatest reward that life can offer...

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