Dementia 6: understanding distressed behaviours in people with dementia

To be able to alleviate distress experienced by people living with dementia, accurate identification of potential causes of distressed behaviour is essential

Abstract

The term ‘behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia’ refers to a range of neuropsychiatric disturbances, such as agitation, aggression, depression, apathy, psychosis, wandering, repetitive questioning and sleep problems. More often than not, these behaviours are a sign of distress and an attempt by the person living with dementia to communicate an unmet need. This article, the sixth in a series on dementia, suggests some of the possible causes of distressed behaviour. Using a fictitious scenario, it demonstrates how early and accurate identification of the possible causes of distressed behaviour can dramatically improve outcomes for people living with dementia.

Citation: Aldridge Z, Harrison Dening K (2023) Dementia 6: understanding distressed behaviours in people with dementia. Nursing Times [online]; 119: 8.

Authors: Zena Aldridge is dementia nurse consultant, NHS Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care Board, and regional clinical adviser (dementia), NHS England and NHS Improvement; Karen Harrison Dening is head of research and publications, Dementia UK, and honorary professor of dementia nursing, De Montfort University.