Memory loss is one of the classic signs of Alzheimer’s disease. It involves difficulty recalling recent events or information, and as the disease advances, it can affect other cognitive functions, such as reasoning, planning, and language. Additionally, the neurodegenerative disease can also lead to behavioural changes, which can be challenging for caregivers to manage. In this article, not only will we discuss common behavioural changes in Alzheimer’s patients, but we will also explore mindful strategies to approach these challenges.
Also Read: Digital Dementia: How Too Much Screen Time Can Cause Memory Problems?
Common Behavioural Changes In Alzheimer’s Patients![]()
According to Dr Chinmay Khumbar, Consultant Neurologist, Manipal Hospital, Baner, Pune, Alzheimer’s patients often experience a range of behavioural and memory-related changes due to the progressive nature of the disease.
A very old study published in the journal Neurology suggests that 88% of Alzheimer's disease patients experience behavioural changes.
The most common behavioural change is apathy, which is exhibited by 72% of patients, whereas other common behavioural changes include agitation (60%), anxiety (48%), irritability (42%), dysphoria (38%), aberrant motor behaviour (38%), disinhibition (36%), delusions (22%), and hallucinations (10%).
Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Kumbar lists some of the common behavioural changes and their causes:
- Aggression and irritability: often triggered by frustration or confusion.
- Anxiety and restlessness: increased disorientation can lead to agitation.
- Depression or apathy: loss of interest in activities once enjoyed.
- Sundowning: increased agitation or confusion during late afternoon or evening.
- Paranoia or delusions: Misunderstanding situations can lead to suspicion.
How To Mindfully Approach Alzheimer’s Patients![]()
Dr Kumbar says, “Mindfulness can be a helpful tool in managing the behavioural changes associated with Alzheimer’s.” The common strategies include:
- Calming techniques like deep breathing, listening to soothing sounds, or simple tactile sensations (holding hands or touching soft objects) can help reduce anxiety or agitation.
- Using mindfulness practices like focusing on breathing, guided imagery, or light exercises to refocus the patient’s attention during moments of aggression or confusion.
- Mindfulness encourages routines, which are important for patients with Alzheimer’s to feel a sense of security.
- Awareness about current affairs is considered to be a useful tool by making them watch news, read newspapers, and discuss ongoing events.
- Empathy is the strongest tool for handling and caring for patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How Caregivers Can Remain Calm And Supportive![]()
Caring for an Alzheimer's patient can be challenging and sometimes can take a physical as well as an emotional toll on the caregiver. According to the Alzheimer's Association, some of the common symptoms of caregiver stress include denial, anger, social withdrawal, anxiety, depression, sleeplessness, and irritability. This might also affect how one responds to the patient, worsening the overall situation. Hence, here are some ways caregivers can remain calm and supportive:
- Practise patience: Understand that the patient’s actions are not intentional but a result of the disease. Patient may lose insight into his/her condition and behave in an irrational way.
- Maintain a calm demeanour: Keeping a low and soothing tone of voice can help prevent escalation of the situation. Never shout or have an aggressive approach.
- Non-verbal cues: Eye contact, gentle touches, and smiles can provide comfort and reassurance.
- Pause and breathe: When tensions rise, caregivers can practise breathing exercises to ground themselves.
- Respond instead of reacting.
You can also indulge in calm and stress-reducing techniques, such as:
- Simple deep breathing techniques (e.g., 4-7-8 method)
- Practising yoga; Suryanamaskar is believed and studied to help patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
- Socialising is a form of modern exercise to boost social mindfulness, social awareness, and foster interpersonal relationships.
- Taking a few minutes to walk slowly and focus on physical sensations, sights, and sounds to relieve stress.
Bottomline
While providing care for an Alzheimer's patient is essential, it is equally important to prioritise your own well-being. Balancing the demands of caregiving with self-care ensures that you remain healthy, resilient, and capable of offering the best support.