"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.