A resident with dementia says, 'I have to go home now. My children are waiting for their supper.' Her children are grown. What is the best response?
- Ask her about her children, then guide her to an activity
- Explain that her children are adults and she lives here now
- Tell her the children called and will come to collect her soon
- Remind her firmly that she asks the same thing every day
Show the answer
A. Ask her about her children, then guide her to an activity
Arguing with facts the person cannot hold on to causes distress. Responding to the feeling behind the words and then redirecting is calming and honest. Saying the children are coming is a lie that leads to more upset when nobody arrives.
Reference: Dementia care: validation and redirection
A resident with dementia becomes more confused and restless every day in the late afternoon and evening. What is this pattern called?
- Delirium
- Depression
- Sundowning
- Aphasia
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C. Sundowning
Sundowning is increased confusion and agitation late in the day. A calm, well-lit setting, less noise and a steady routine help. Delirium is a sudden new confusion, not a daily pattern.
Reference: Dementia care: sundowning
A resident with dementia walks the halls for much of the day. What is the best approach?
- Seat the resident in a chair that is hard to get out of
- Let the resident walk in a safe, supervised area
- Keep the resident in the room with the door shut
- Tell the resident to sit down each time you pass
Show the answer
B. Let the resident walk in a safe, supervised area
Walking is not harmful in itself; the aide keeps it safe, checks for needs such as toileting, hunger or pain, and offers rest and fluids. Confining the resident to a chair or room is restraint or seclusion.
Reference: Dementia care: wandering