How Does Dementia Cause Changes in Behaviour?

Dementia is a complex condition that can affect people in lots of different ways. In addition to impacting thinking, memory and planning, changes in the mood, behaviour or emotional state of someone living with dementia can occur. This can be challenging for everyone.  

When someone living with dementia behaves in a way that is different from their usual behaviour or patterns, it might be because they feel anxious, fearful, frustrated or confused. They may be in pain or confused about where they are or what they see. They may also find it hard to communicate how they feel or what they are experiencing.  

Other people may experience these changes by noticing that a person living with dementia is becoming agitated, withdrawn or frustrated, or they might pace, yell or stop their usual routines.  

Trying to understand what might be triggering these changes in mood and behaviour is important.  

Could they be experiencing an issue with their health and feel unwell? Is their medication affecting them? Are they feeling frustrated because of changes in the way they can communicate? Or might the physical environment be overwhelming them (by being too noisy or busy)? Could changes in routine be making them anxious or frightened? Is a memory of something from the past causing them distress? 

There is not always just one factor. Families and carers may have to try a range of different strategies to understand what is affecting someone. But the more you explore about what might be behind someone’s mood or behaviour change, and the more things you try, the better equipped you’ll be to help them and yourself. 

• Notice what is happening at the time. Try to keep a record of possible triggers or situations. 

• Arrange a visit to the doctor. The doctor can check if physical illness, side effects of medication or discomfort are contributing to the changes in behaviour.  

• Think about ways to connect to the person and how they view their world. 

• Try to respond with patience and avoid getting frustrated or cross. 

• Try to redirect someone experiencing behaviour changes to focus on something else that they enjoy. 

• Create spaces that support engagement and wellbeing. 

• Non-verbal communication is as important as the words you use – consider your body language and how someone might experience it.