Have you ever thought about how the world might look and feel for a person living with dementia? Working out the “why” behind someone’s reactions is key to showing us how best to meet their individual needs, and their fundamental human rights of dignity and respect. 

"Challenging behaviours" is a common phrase that is used when describing people with dementia. For example, they may talk about wanting to go home, be resistive or 'non-compliant', display inappropriate behaviours, or tell untruths or accuse someone.

Instead of seeing these behaviours as "challenging" we need to start asking ourselves "what is the person trying to tell us?". This approach will help us to walk in their shoes, and meet their needs in a dignified and respectful way.

You will walk through six pieces of the puzzle that can help you understand a person's "challenging behaviours". These puzzle pieces will help explore the "why" behind what the person is doing, and what they are trying to tell you they need.

Finding out the "why" is crucial to ensuring a person with dementia is left feeling safe, dignified and respected.

Until a person with dementia's needs are met, their "challenging behaviours" will often continue. Unmet needs are not just physical, but they can also be emotional, spiritual and the surrounding environment, including ourselves.

Learn how we can best support a person with dementia's needs to ensure they are left feeling safe, respected and continue to maintain their skills and independence to live well. This will also help provide connection and preserve relationships that may otherwise be negatively impacted.

CONGRATULATIONS!

You have finished Dignified Minds "Understanding 'challenging behaviours'" online course.

The following resources further support your learning of dementia - enjoy!