Why People with Dementia Say No (And What to Do About it)

There are ways you can interact with someone who has dementia to minimize the use of the word “No”, and to get them to cooperate more easily.By Rita JablonskiAlzheimer's Reading RoomPeople with dementia say “NO” to nearly every question or request.This is an incredible challenge for caregivers.In this article, I explain one reason for the non-stop no ’s …and offer strategies for preventing and managing the negativity.Dementia Patients are People TooSubscribe to the Alzheimer's Reading RoomEmail:Patterns of Memory Loss and Retrieval ProblemsAll dementias share this same common feature:moving backwards in time.The newer memories go away first, followed by older memories. Persons with dementia “unlearn” tasks and abilities in reverse order. The tasks learned earliest in childhood, such as feeding oneself and removing clothing, are the last to be lost.Some memories are buried deep in the brain. Retrieval, or the ability to get memories and bring them to the surface, gets worse. Singing and music, by the way, are retrieval paths. If the front door of the house is locked, always try the back door … it may be unlocked. Or try a side window.Music uses different paths to get to buried memories, which is why someone who no longer talks suddenly sings along with a favorite hymn or song.What is the Difference Between Alzheimer ’s and Dementia“Mama” and “NO!”The earliest words uttered by babes are usually“mama” and “no.” Any parent can relate to th...
Source: Alzheimer's Reading Room, The - Category: Neurology Tags: alzheimer Alzheimer's family care of dementia patients dementia care strategies elderly dementia care help alzheimer's help with dementia care no say no Source Type: blogs