How do you handle a person with dementia who is experiencing compulsive re-prioritizing
When caring for a person with dementia who is experiencing compulsive re-prioritizing—a behavior where they frequently change their focus or priorities in ways that seem urgent or repetitive—it can be challenging. This behavior often stems from the brain changes dementia causes, affecting how the person thinks, feels, and reacts to their environment.
Here are some practical ways to handle this situation with patience and understanding:
**1. Understand the Cause**
Dementia affects parts of the brain responsible for managing emotions, attention, and decision-making. This can lead to behaviors like compulsive re-prioritizing because the person may feel anxious, confused, or overwhelmed by changes around them or by unmet needs such as hunger or discomfort[2]. Recognizing that these behaviors are symptoms—not intentional actions—helps caregivers respond calmly.
**2. Keep a Calm and Predictable Environment**
Changes in routine or noisy surroundings can increase confusion and agitation[2]. Try to maintain a stable daily schedule with familiar activities and surroundings. Reducing overstimulation helps lessen anxiety that might trigger compulsive behaviors.
**3. Use Person-Centered Care**
Tailor your approach based on what you know about the person’s history, preferences, and current abilities[2]. For example:
– Engage them in simple tasks they enjoy.
– Use reminders of past positive experiences through photos or music.
– Validate their feelings rather than arguing about their changing priorities.
This approach reduces distress by making them feel understood and secure.
**4. Address Basic Needs Promptly**
Sometimes compulsive behaviors arise because basic needs aren’t met—like hunger, thirst, pain relief, or needing to use the bathroom[2]. Regularly check if these needs are satisfied before trying other interventions.
**5. Redirect Gently**
If they fixate on something unimportant but harmless (like repeatedly wanting to reorganize items), gently redirect their attention without confrontation:
– Suggest an alternative activity.
– Offer help with a task related to what interests them.
Avoid telling them they’re wrong; instead focus on calming reassurance.
**6. Be Patient With Emotional Responses**
People with dementia may become anxious or fearful when they cannot make sense of situations[1][3]. Responding with empathy rather than frustration helps reduce emotional distress linked to compulsive shifting of priorities.
In summary: handling someone who compulsively re-prioritizes requires patience rooted in understanding dementia’s effects on behavior. Creating calm routines tailored personally while meeting physical needs reduces triggers for this behavior. Gentle redirection combined with empathy supports both caregiver and loved one through these challenges effectively without escalating stress levels[2].
This compassionate approach fosters safety and comfort amid cognitive changes caused by dementia progression[1][2].
