Changed behaviours and dementia

1 Changed behaviours

This Help Sheet looks at some of the common behaviour changes that may occur when a person has dementia. Reasons for the changes and some general guidelines for coping with them are discussed.

Download a copy of Help Sheet - 1 Changed behaviours 

2 Problem solving

This Help Sheet discusses some ways to think about any changes in behaviours that are occurring as a result of dementia. It describes a problem solving approach that may help you manage any behaviours if and when they arise.

Download a copy of Help Sheet - 2 Problem solving

3 Depression and dementia

This Help Sheet looks at depression in people with dementia, how to recognise it, and importantly, ways in which it may be treated.

Download a copy of Help Sheet - 3 Depression and dementia 

4 Wandering

This Help Sheet looks at the wandering behaviour of some people with dementia. The reasons for wandering are discussed, as well as some suggestions for ways to manage it.

Download a copy of Help Sheet - 4 Wandering

5 Sundowning

This Help Sheet explains why some people with dementia are particularly restless in the afternoon and evening, a condition sometimes known as sundowning. It gives some practical advice to families and carers for managing sundowning.

Download a copy of Help Sheet - 5 Sundowning 

6 Anxious behaviours

This Help Sheet discusses the causes of anxious behaviours which may be a distressing sympton of dementia and suggests some ways to manage them effectively, as well as some sources of additional help.

Download a copy of Help Sheet - 6 Anxious behaviours

7 Aggressive behaviours

This Help Sheet discusses the causes of aggressive behaviours, which may sometimes occur as a result of dementia, suggests some ways to manage and some sources of help.

Download a copy of Help Sheet - 7 Aggressive behaviours

8 Agitated behaviours

This Help Sheet discusses some of the causes of agitated behaviours, which can be a very concerning symptom of dementia and suggests ways to prevent and manage them if they occur.

Download a copy of Help Sheet - 8 Agitated behaviours

9 Hallucinations and false ideas

This Help Sheet discusses some of the causes of hallucinations and false ideas such as paranoia and delusions and suggests ways that families and carers can deal with them.

Download a copy of Help Sheet - 9 Hallucinations and false ideas

10 Disinhibited behaviours

This Help Sheet describes the signs and causes of disinhibited behaviours that are tactless, inappropriate or offensive as well as some sources of help.

Download a copy of Help Sheet - 10 Disinhibited behaviours 

© Alzheimer’s Australia 2012

Alzheimer’s Australia is responsible for the content of these Help Sheets. These publications provide a general summary only of the subject matter covered. People should seek professional advice about their specific case. Alzheimer’s Australia is not liable for any error or omission in these publications.