Forum Discussion

She is possibly hitting out due to frustration, fear and confusion , all which lead to anger. If you have tried the usual diversion tactics here is an idea we use with some success. Make up a laminated card that she can keep with the following written on it. " Your name is (omit this if she knows)... You now live here at ( facility name and area)....Your husband / family visit (say when) If you need help ask one of the staff. You are safe here.
We stick this to our residents rollator frame seat or hang it on their walking frame so it is readily accessible. Everytime they get agitated or asking "where is" questions we point to the card and read it.
Just a note: This also works for residents who continually ask about the time (state where the clock is so they can look for themselves) ask about meals etc (write times of each meal etc).
Also get in touch with the Dementia Behaviour Management Advisory Service.

Look for am unmet need , check her bowel chart, UTI , SOme women from particular cultures become aggressive due to dementia more so thamn others. Creaye a behaviour chart this will enable you to monitior for patterns in changes in her behaviour therefore identifinying triggers and unmet needs are able to be indentified .then implement a behaviour management plan with the assistance of external Behavorial Management centres if required. Ie DBMAS ALZIEHMERS AUST, depending on your area PJC. Talk with family is this a new behaviour is has she been aggressive previously. Good Luck.

Do you not understand Dementia its not attention,every person that hits out that has dementia does it for reason,the way staff approach her,doesn't understand what is being asked of her?She may have grief that hasn't been acknowledged now she's locked their with it.Not knowing why she feels horrible,scared calling for the one person made her feel good a very familiar name.Everytime she calls out to her hubby its the 1st time,to her she isnt aware that she has called his name 100+ times before.Patience is the only key to caring for ppl with dementia.Having worked 30+ years in aged care I can honestly tell you that.

All are excellent points. Is this lady in pain and unable to clearly state what is happening? The disease is encroaching on her ability to cope with tasks. She may be feeling frightened as she may realise she is unable to undertake tasks that she was able to do. This leads to changes in her behaviour with frustration occurring when she needs assistance with these tasks that she once did independently. She may even feel resentful towards you, unknowingly, because she may dislike being told what to do. Calling for her husband obviously she felt safe with him, she sounds as though she does not feel safe. Clare makes a good point, how are people approaching her? Are people rushing her? What is the environment like? Is it very noisy, people rushing about, talking over her, making her feel as though she is a bother? A person living with dementia feels all this. DBMAS is sensational to assist you and your colleagues to assist this lady. At times we tend to forget there are groups out there to help us cope. They would be my first go to group and if not in your area Alzheimer's Australia are excellent too.