14 May Behavioral Manifestations of Alzheimer’s Disease: A guide for caregivers

Cognition is defined as the mental process of acquiring knowledge and understanding it.  It includes perception, knowledge, memory and awareness.  Cognitive impairment is the symptom most commonly associated with brain disease and Alzheimer’s disease. Yet, there are a host of behavioral changes that are also linked to this particular type of dementia.  Loved ones often report that they saw the emotional changes in their parents long before the changes in cognition.  As such, these changes provide an “early warning” system that should be noted.

What Might a Behavioral Change Look Like?

A person with Alzheimer’s disease might respond to what others often consider to be minor issues in a number of ways.  They might include:

• yelling and sudden verbal outbursts,
• aggression towards others,
• increased suspicion,
• cursing,
• not wanting to be involved in certain activities,
• pacing,
• repetitive mannerisms such as shredding or tearing of tissue or other paper,
• intensive crying.

While the cognitive decline can be difficult for both the individual and caregivers it is often the behavioral manifestations that are a primary factor for the family to seek a higher degree of assistance, such as residential care.

Behavioral Triggers

John Growdon, M.D.,¹ believes some of the triggers behind a person with Alzheimer’s disease exhibiting these behaviors might be:

• lack of understanding of a situation or conversation,
• stress,
• being overly tired, and
• discomfort.

Some Methods of Dealing with Behavioral Concerns for Caregivers

If stress is a trigger, it is best for caregivers to calm the person down and provide assurances that everything is okay.  Even when the behavior is embarrassing or uncomfortable to be around, the caregiver should try to maintain a quiet voice with even tone, affirming their care and safety.²

If you have noticed a loved one demonstrating some of the behaviors above, especially aggression, it is important that they be properly evaluated so that appropriate medical care can be given.  The Institute for Advanced Medical Research conducts complimentary memory screenings for those exhibiting symptoms.  After the initial screening, those who are eligible and interested are invited to participate in a clinical trial of potential new treatments for Alzheimer’s disease.  Call 770-817-9200 for more information.

1) John Growdon, MD, Neurology, on answering “How Can Alzheimer’s Disease Affect Emotional Response?”; http://www.sharecare.com/health/alzheimers-signs-symptoms/how-alzheimers-affect-emotional-response

2) Alzheimer’s Association; http://www.alz.org/professionals_and_researchers_behavioral_symptoms_pr.asp#managing