Dementia can lead to behaviour changes. These changes are very common and can be distressing and confusing for families and carers.
The first step for dealing with behavioural changes is to discuss any concerns or changes with a doctor. They can check for physical causes or underlying conditions unrelated to dementia that may be causing these changes. Sometimes the behaviour can also be related to the environment, medication or the person's health.
It's important to remember that not all changed behaviour is deliberate. For the person with symptoms, the nature of the changes in the brain means they may not be aware of any changes.
The resources below can assist you.
Dementia Support Australia offers 24/7 in-home support for carers when the person living with dementia is experiencing behaviours and psychological changes that are affecting their care.
Ozcare provides a free service funded by the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP). It can assist you in navigating the aged care system. They can visit your home or work with you via telephone.
Alzheimer's Queensland dementia workshops designed to arm service providers and carers with knowledge about dementia and how it can impact lifestyles, functional abilities and behaviours.
The extensive collection covering all aspects of dementia as well as an eLibrary and library guides (online microsites containing access to a range of curated resources including books, videos, and Dementia Australia publications.)
A practical book that guides people with dementia and carers and contains more than 280 tips.
A free online tool where you can create a personalised and practical information kit to support you in navigating a dementia diagnosis.
The Dementia Centre includes booklets and tips for carers with a focus on managing changing behaviours.
Dementia Australia provides a range of information and resources along with online and face-to-face education sessions.
The Alzheimer's Society provides advice to carers for when a person living with dementia refuses care or denies their diagnosis.
Home Instead provides tips and advice to carers and family members to help people overcome their resistance to in-home care and support.
Coping with changing behaviours
We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia, their diversity, histories and knowledge and their continuing connections to land, waterways and culture. We pay our respect to all Australian Indigenous Peoples and their cultures, and to Elders of past, present and future generations.
We would like to express our gratitude to all the healthy ageing advocates, including people living with dementia, older people, families, carers and health professionals, who contributed to the development of this portal. Thank you for sharing your stories and transferring your knowledge to make this portal purposeful and meaningful to support people in the North Brisbane and Moreton Bay region.