Month: April 2026

In dementia care, the words we use matter. That’s why it’s important to move away from blaming language like “challenging,” “difficult,” or “disruptive.” While certain actions may feel difficult for those of us without dementia, people living with dementia are always more than their behavior. Understanding behavior changes in dementia starts with recognizing the person behind those actions.

Understanding Behavior as Communication

If someone in your care responds in ways that seem unusual or confusing, it helps to pause and ask a deeper question. Often, behavior changes in dementia are a form of communication. The behavior may be expressing fear, discomfort, confusion, or an unmet need. Rather than ignoring, scolding, or immediately medicating, taking time to understand the message can lead to more supportive care.

This approach also helps clarify what is dementia-related behavior—actions influenced by changes in the brain, not intentional choices made to cause disruption.

Choosing Non-Blaming Language

Using non-blaming language in dementia care shifts how we think and how we respond. When the focus stays on the disease rather than the person, care becomes more compassionate and less reactive. Language that removes blame opens the door to curiosity, patience, and understanding.

A CARES® Tip: Pause and Reflect

When you notice behavior changes in dementia that feel bothersome, ask yourself:

• Is anyone being harmed?
• Is this a problem for others, or just uncomfortable for me?

If no one is upset or at risk, it may be okay to let the behavior continue. Sometimes, “rolling with it” reduces stress for everyone involved.

How Common Are These Changes?
Behavior changes in dementia are very common, both in care settings and at home. Research shows that 70% to 90% of nursing home residents with dementia experience behaviors often described as resistive, threatening, or disruptive. Studies also show that more than 80% of people living with dementia experience some form of behavior change at some point.

While these numbers may feel overwhelming, they also remind us that these behaviors are not unusual or intentional. They are part of how dementia affects the brain. The encouraging news is that when caregivers understand why behavior changes in dementia happen and learn thoughtful ways of responding to dementia behavior, daily interactions often become calmer, more supportive, and less stressful for everyone involved.

Seeing behavior differently can ease stress and improve care. Deepen your learning with CARES® Training and receive 10% off using code SpringFlowers26 through May 31, 2026!.

Caring for person with dementia requires patience, understanding, and thoughtful communication, and the way caregivers physically approach them plays a key role in their comfort. A calm, respectful approach helps reduce confusion and anxiety, creating a safer, more supportive environment for everyday interactions.

Understanding the Positive Physical Approach

A helpful technique used in dementia care is the Positive Physical Approach. This method focuses on creating a calm and respectful connection before beginning any task or conversation. When caregivers approach thoughtfully, it helps the person feel more secure and prepared for the interaction.

Key steps of the Positive Physical Approach include:

• Approach from the front so the person can clearly see you.

• Walk slowly to avoid startling them.

• Move slightly to the side rather than standing directly over them.

• Lower yourself to eye level by crouching or kneeling.

• Offer your hand as a friendly gesture.

• Greet the person warmly by name.

The Importance of Consistency

Consistency plays an important role in dementia care. Because memory is affected by the condition, a person may not remember seeing a caregiver earlier in the day or even a short time ago. Using the same calm and respectful approach each time helps create familiarity and reassurance. Over time, this routine can help the person feel more comfortable during interactions and reduce feelings of confusion or anxiety.

Creating Calm and Respectful Interactions

In dementia care, small actions can make a meaningful difference. Taking a moment to approach someone calmly, greet them warmly, and communicate at eye level helps build trust and comfort.
Practicing a Positive Physical Approach encourages compassionate, respectful care. It also helps create more positive daily interactions, allowing individuals living with dementia to feel valued, understood, and supported.

Discover how a Positive Physical Approach can improve interactions in Dementia Care. Deepen your skills with CARES® Training, now 10% off with code SpringFlowers26, valid through May 31, 2026!