In a condition like dementia, some effects are seen on the behavior of a patient. In some cases, distress behavior is reflected. It is led by certain causes that can vary from one patient to another. The dementia specialist, Praby Sodhi, is of the view that managing distressed behavior is important. When it is not control , caregivers can face difficulties to manage the disorder as well.

1. What does Distressed
Behavior in Dementia Indicate
and How to Help a Patient?

2. In a condition like dementia, some effects are seen on the behavior of a
patient. In some cases, distress behavior is reflected. It is led by certain
causes that can vary from one patient to another. The dementia
specialist, Praby Sodhi, is of the view that managing distressed
behavior is important. When it is not control , caregivers can face
difficulties to manage the disorder as well. Based on how this behavior
is indicated, they can opt for its management, as believe by Mr. Sodhi.
Main Types of Indications of Distressed Behavior in Dementia
Distressed behavior can make a person behave in an unusual manner.
This can send across a few indications. They can be broadly categorize
into physical and mental indications. As part of these categories,
multiple signs are observe . They can range from hallucinations to
bodily infections.
Physical Indications of Distressed Behavior during Dementia
At least 6 signs can be indicated when a dementia patient is distress.
These signs can occur in a combination when the behavior of a patient is
observe . Or, the signs can be individually present in him or her.
Praby Sodhi, the dementia specialist, says that it is also important to
realize that these physical indications and their severity can vary
among patients.

3. • Occurrence of Infections
Patients with dementia can become distressed when they are developing infections. A
urinary tract infection or UTI is one common occurrence. A foul-smelling urine indicates
the development of this infection. For patients, understanding this symptom is usually a
challenge. In consequence, they can experience distressed behavior
Other infections contributing to such behavior include:
• Pneumonia
• Infection in gums
• Lung infections
• Presence of Pain
A person who is in the moderate or later stage of dementia can undergo different types
of pain. When they are unable to identify the source of the same, their behavior can
indicate that they are distress.
• This pain can occur due to bodily changes.
• It can occur because of poor oral hygiene.
• Skin infections or problems can contribute to it.
• There can be other factors causing pain and be identify.
• To do so, caregivers can look for signs of discomfort.
• They can additionally observe triggers resulting in pain and such behavior.
• Changes in Appetite
It is not uncommon for dementia to lead to changes in appetite. Mr. Sodhi is of the view
that these changes can include modifications in preferences. Also, in some cases,
patients may not be able to identify when they are thirsty or hungry. Or, even when they
identify the same, conveying their needs to others is difficult for some patients.
The inability to understand the changes related to appetite can indicate that a dementia
patient is distress. Caregivers can aim to identify the changes in appetite. Moreover,
they can encourage patients to eat or drink as per the schedule.

4. Mental Indications of Distressed Behavior in Dementia
Patients with dementia can indicate mental triggers that are
leading to distressed behavior. This is more common for
those who have been diagnose with Lewy body dementia.
These indications are mainly in the form of visual
hallucinations, according to the observation of Mr. Sodhi.
• During these, patients can view things that do not exist.
• These perceptions are frightening for patients.
• When not acknowledged, the situation can worsen.
In Essence
This brain disorder, dementia, can make a person behave
oddly. Usually, when he/she is distress , this behavior will be
indicated. Through the indication, the specialist, Praby
Sodhi, says that the potential cause of the behavior can be
identify. Based on this, it can be treat, managed, or
controlled.