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Conditions and Diseases > Alzheimer Disease Forum > Elderly With Dementia Need Your Support
Alzheimer's disease is a brain disorder that causes dementia. But what causes Alzheimers? What signs can you look for?...
Learn the most common signs and symptoms of the onset of Alzheimer Disease. We also discuss symptoms of dementia so you can know when to seek help. ...
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Q: Elderly With Dementia Need Your Support
asked by: percussion86 on March 9th, 2008
New User
Some people always ask the same questions repeatedly. They experience sudden mood swings frequently, and feel very agitated and anxious very easily. At times, they wander about aimlessly, yell, start crying, or display emotions of combativeness and aggression. Sleep disturbances, inappropriate sexual behaviour, hallucinations and delusions are a part of life for these folks too. These persons are afflicted with Dementia.

Dementia sufferers need your support!

What do you do to offer support to loved ones experiencing dementia?
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CarolDiane
replied on March 29th, 2008
Extremely eHealthy
Keep re-directing there minds to events that have happend and are going to happen. In other words, never stop using the word "Remember". Do this on a daily basis. Although it is not a cure, it will bring them back to reality for a bit. Expect sometimes the person will say "I do not remember that" or really? Just keep reminding them of things that meant alot to them in thier lives. Happy times they have had in the past. That is basically all you can do. Playing word games like scrable and crossword is good theropy also. Also show them old photo's of thier life as a child to present.

*Carrie*
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antigone
replied on April 8th, 2008
Extremely eHealthy
Ms. Carrie is right. Bring them back to the present and reorient them.

If you notice things become worse at night then keep a little light in the room. A lamp is the best option as low night lights can cause strange shadows on the wall and frighten a person that is disoriented and prone to hallucinations. This is called sundowners syndrome. You see a marked cognitive decline accompanied by hallucinations, delusions, combativeness etc. In the morning the person seems to be back to their usual self and has no memory of the events from the night before.

Medications are available to help with the hallucinations and delusions. Sleep disturbances are common and can be treated with medication.

I hope this helps.
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