What can change with dementia?

Those close to people with dementia usually notice changes in their behaviour and how they react to things.

Dementia can often affect thinking and planning skills. This might mean that a person struggles to carry out everyday tasks. For example, they may find it hard to make a cup of tea because they have difficulties planning the task and carrying out the steps in the right order. Making a cup of tea may seem simple, but there are lots of steps involved and actions need to be done in a specific order. 

Sometimes people have difficulty stopping a task or getting started. It’s important to remember that the person with dementia does not intend to behave in a way that other people find difficult. It’s due to the changes in their brain, and it can be confusing and upsetting for you both. 

You may notice changes to the person with dementia’s emotional control. For example, they may become upset or angry with little warning. You may notice that they act impulsively, seem to overreact to things, or say things that appear rude or uncaring. 

These changes can be challenging. One of the best things you can do is to take time to care for yourself. It’s important not to blame yourself and to try to look after your physical and mental well-being.