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Haims: Redirecting individuals with dementia

Redirecting loved ones and patients with dementia can often be a successful strategy to use when managing challenging behaviors. Because people with dementia cannot always communicate what they want, those caring for them should learn about tools that may assist with reducing agitation and helping them feel more comfortable in their environment.

When a person with dementia is distressed, confused, or displays challenging behaviors, redirecting them can often help shift their focus away from distressing thoughts, confusion, agitation, or even a sense insecurity. Further, it can help de-escalate situations and interrupt negative mindsets before they become frustrating and prevent behaviors that might cause conflict.

Because dementia affects memory, cognition, and behavior, it can often lead to confusion, frustration, or even aggression. Here are some tips for redirecting individuals with dementia:



Acknowledge and respect their emotions and feelings: Even if the person’s behavior or confusion doesn’t seem rational, it’s important to acknowledge their feelings. Validation can help reduce agitation and frustration. Try saying things like, “I understand you’re upset. It must be hard for you,” “it seems like you’re confused, but I’m right here to help,” or “let’s take a break and figure this out together.”

Physical and/or social activities: Any type of exercise or socialization may be an effective strategy for distracting someone caught up in a bad place. Taking a walk, going for a hike, sitting outside, gardening, or even doing a fun little dance may prove to be a great distraction and improve mood.

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Simplify communication: People with dementia often have trouble processing complex information. When redirecting, keep your language simple, direct, and easy to understand. For example: Instead of saying, “Let’s go to the bedroom and get dressed, then we can go out,” or, “Let’s put on your sweater now. I’ll help you,” use clear, one-step instructions rather than giving multiple directives at once.

Change the environment: If someone is agitated or upset, a simple change of scenery often helps redirect their attention. Moving to a different room or going outside for fresh air can have a calming effect.

Keep choices limited: Giving people with dementia a sense of control can help reduce frustration. Don’t overwhelm them with too many choices. Offer just two or three options. For example: “Would you like to go outside or stay inside for a while?” or “would you prefer to sit in the chair or the sofa?”

Don’t treat them like a child: It’s important to maintain respect and dignity when caring for someone with dementia. Speaking to someone in a condescending, overly simplistic, or overly authoritative tone can be hurtful and disrespectful. Speak to them with dignity, using a calm and reassuring tone.

Don’t challenge or confront their confusion: Challenging someone’s reality who suffers with dementia can be overwhelming and disorienting. It may even cause them to become more agitated. Try to shift their focus away from the source of confusion. Guide them to a more familiar or pleasant topic or activity without directly confronting their disorientation.

Don’t engage in physical confrontation: Don’t confront the person or try to discuss the angry behavior. A person with dementia does not always have the ability to reflect on unacceptable behavior and frequently cannot control it. Do not initiate physical contact during an outburst as this may trigger physical violence. Give them space to be angry.

Don’t try to reason: Reasoning rarely works. Do not try to correct them, convince them they are wrong, or argue with them. It is more effective to accept what the person is saying and just go with it. Try to respond to their feelings, not reasoning.

By staying calm, acknowledging their feelings and using strategies like distraction, simplifying communication, and engaging in familiar activities, caregivers can effectively manage difficult behaviors and promote a sense of safety and comfort. The key is to approach the situation with empathy and patience, remembering that the person’s emotional experience is valid, even if the reason behind their behavior may not be clear.

Judson Haims is the owner of Visiting Angels Home Care in Eagle County. He is an advocate for our elderly and is available to answer questions. Connect with him at jhaims@visitingangels.com


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