Have you ever noticed how asking someone to do something in dementia care can suddenly turn into resistance — even when it used to be easy? Often, it’s not about what we’re asking — but how we're asking.
Sometimes, having a flyer on the fridge or on a wall is just the reminder we need to take a pause, let go and try again later. Check out this blog post and download the flyer at the end of the post HERE.
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As always in dementia care, any behavioural change should first be evaluated for possible medical causes. Consulting the GP helps rule out issues such as pain, infection, or medication side effects before focusing on emotional or environmental factors.
Imagine being in the bathroom with an incontinence product in your hand. You know it needs to go somewhere — but where? You look around… nothing catches your eye. No bin, no obvious place. What would you do?
I was delighted to write for Bibetta, a company that specialises in creating reusable, machine-washable dining protectors designed for people of all ages and needs.
When we talk about challenging situations in dementia care, we often hear that they come from unmet needs. More often than not, I find this to be true. But before we dig into those needs, it’s important to remember that any sudden or unusual change in mental status should always be checked by a medical professional first. Infections, pain, medication side effects, or other medical issues can cause changes in behavior, and they need to be ruled out before we explore other explanations.
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Stress is the body’s natural response to a demand, change, or challenge. It can be physical (e.g. pain) or psychological (e.g. being stuck in a traffic jam). When examining psychological stress, Dr Sonia Lupien developed the N.U.T.S. Model of stress (learn more Here). According to this model, psychological stress contains at least one of these four ingredients: novelty, unpredictability, threat to the ego (our sense of identity and competence), or low sense of control.
Stress is the body’s natural response to a demand, change, or challenge. It can be physical, emotional, or mental—and is not always negative. In small doses, stress can enhance focus and motivation. However, when it becomes chronic or overwhelming, it can affect well-being, decision-making, and relationships.For caregivers, especially those supporting someone living with dementia, stress often builds up gradually. Minor challenges—disrupted routines, resistance to care, or health-related concerns—can accumulate and lead to emotional or physical exhaustion.
Dementia or not, well-being is important for all of us.
