Addressing Repetitive Behaviors, Phone Calls, and Questions
People with dementia may struggle to remember recent events or actions, causing them to repeat themselves or do the same thing repeatedly. They may also repeat words or gestures as a way to comfort themselves.
In dealing with these behaviors, considering the following:
Be patient.
Answer as if it is the first time, every time.
Avoid saying that they already told you.
Is the repetitive question or behavior upsetting to them or causing harm to someone?
If not, take a deep breath and engage calmly each time the question or story is repeated.
If yes, then explore their feelings to identify what they are experiencing.
Ignore the behavior, but not the person.
Be present when you are with them and don’t get distracted with other things.
Have them focus on you - use touch, such as placing your hand on theirs.
Include them in your daily routine by giving them tasks, or telling and showing them what you are doing.
Initiate activities and conversations. They may be repeating themselves because they can’t think of anything else to say or do.
Keep a list of effective conversation topics and interventions so you don’t have to think of something in the moment.
If the behavior usually occurs at a specific time, plan to engage them in an enjoyable activity before the behavior begins.
Consider activities related to the repetition.
Find a task for them to do related to the question that they keep asking. For example, if your loved one keeps asking when dinner is, involve them in preparing the meal or setting the table.
If your loved one calls you repeatedly, record a video message or leave a note for them for view.
Set a time each day when you will call them.
Identify and remove any possible triggers.
Check whether there is something that they see or hear that is causing them to ask a question or behave a certain way.
For example, a reminder card for a doctor’s appointment could cause them to ask about the appointment. Remove the card from their sight and engage them in another activity.