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Have you ever noticed that people who suffer from Alzheimer’s often repeat things?

Short-term memory loss is one of the most challenging symptoms of mental impairment such as Alzheimer’s Disease of dementia. Rest assured that no senior will want to aggravate you by repeating things, and often they too are frustrated at that process.

It’s natural to have tons of grace for the same questions being asked for a short while, but you can easily run out of patience as the disease progresses. So, what to do? Here are some tips that will help!

People with Alzheimer’s may repeat things…a lot

Why do Alzheimer’s and dementia patients say things over and over?

First, it’s crucial to understand that older adults often repeat things for an added sense of security as they age. People with mental impairments can find repeating things to be comforting when they aren’t sure what is going on around them. Ultimately, it’s all about them feeling in control of their environment.

4 Tips to Help Cope with Repetition

• Try not to respond to their choice of words and focus on their emotion. 
  If you notice the same question being repeated, try to get a sense of the insecurity that might be at the root of the question they are asking. Never underestimate the power of touch! A hug or touch can be very reassuring! If they feel more secure, they can often stop to think about what they are really trying to say.
• Don’t be long-winded.
  Naturally, you will want to communicate with the senior in your life the same way you always have. But if they have Alzheimer’s or dementia, this can be challenging. Keeping your answers brief and concise will go a long way in preventing confusion and frustration.
• Use distraction techniques. 
  If they are stuck fixating on a question, offering them another activity can be very effective. Perhaps something to eat or a favorite TV show. You could also simply change the subject.
• Take a time-out.
  If you find yourself getting increasingly agitated at answering the same questions over and over, take the time to step away and calm your own nerves. This is super important as you learn how to be a caregiver.

Conclusion

The bottom line is that hearing questions repeated all day may eventually grind on your nerves, it’s only human after all. Try not to lose your cool. It won’t help things and will solve nothing for either of you. Learning to put these techniques into practice will save your nerves from being frayed many times a day!

Understand that there are many others who are going through the same issue, so join a support group on social media or find a friend to talk to when you need a break. Caregiving is not only about the senior in your life, but also about learning to care for yourself so you can effectively care for them!

Read more articles on eldercare: 

Reminiscence Therapy Activities for Dementia Patients

Benefits of Home Care for Seniors in Singapore

If you need some assistance in caring for your senior loved one, Marigold Caregivers can help you find a caregiver or nurse that matches your senior loved one’s specific needs. Give us a call at +65 9109 1965 for more information.

Disclaimer: The words and other content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should consult with an appropriately-licensed physician or other healthcare workers.

Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog or in any linked materials.