Challenging Behaviors and Dementia

Teepa Snow discusses challenging behaviors and dementia. Listen as she shares how to change our perspective and address the unmet need triggering the behavior.






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[michaelstrahan]

My wife was diagnosed with young-onset Alzheimer's five years ago, at the age of 57. Teepa has been a huge help in me figuring out what's going on with my wife. She is a gift to all of us. Thank you!

[maryspinelli]

You gave this woman such blessed relief and a sense of someone understanding her. When she put her head on your shoulder as you two walked - it was a beautiful connection.

[SquiddyBonneBouche]

You’re just… the best, most compassionate and inspiring teacher and carer ever.

[cccarignan]

I learned more in that 6 mins then I have reading hundreds of articles, thank you for sharing, and bless all involved.

[tommypritt]

Teppa! You are saving my sanity, not only for me (caregiver/grandaughter) but my whole family. I'm blessed to have my husband, two wonderful sons care for mawmaw. Her name is Minnie.. I'm honored to be her grandaughter n sometimes a loving stranger.. God bless!!

[judyhutson]

Hi, Teepa. My husband and I moved in with my mom who was diagnosed last year with dementia or Alzheimer's, I'm not sure which. I also have a developmentally disabled sister who lives in the house as well. Mom is 88 and has been a widow since she was 46. She has taken care of my sister and their household since becoming a widow. We were told last year they could no longer live alone. Thus, my husband and I moved in with them in May of 2017. It has not been an easy transition for me or for mom. My husband has been amazing. I have learned very much from your videos and for that I am so grateful. I have realized that as I trust God to control my mouth and my attitude that the household runs so much more smoothly. I have failed many times and am so ashamed and saddened each time I say or do something that hurts mom. She, of course, forgets in a moment or 2, but it really weighs on me. She has not left the house almost since we have been here. Lots of people come in and visit, but she doesn't go out. Shopping used to be our favorite thing; now each time I ask her, she says "not today, maybe later." She taught the same Sunday School class for more than 50 years, but hasn't been to church in the year we've been here. But she thinks she has gone every Sunday. I ask her every week, but it's always the same. She seems so sad and stays in her room most all day every day. She thinks we are here because we have no where else to be and has a really hard time accepting my husband doing anything around the house, which, of course, he resents since he has been a handyman by trade for over 50 years. Many times I feel like I am between a rock and a hard place. I really hate being the parent of my dear mom. I just want to love her through this awful time. I'm doing my best, but many times it seems like so little and definitely not enough. Sure would appreciate prayers. Thank you for listening. Judy Hutson

[Akashasoon]

New subscriber here, I am starting my job placement in aged care and I need to learn these things and more so that I can help better. Thank you!

[sheri]

The world (especially the people of the world that are suffering ), is a better place because of you . Keep talking, sharing your knowledge and loving the life that is left in us.

[DementiaCareblazers]

Awwww. Such a great example of redirection and meeting her need.

[charlenedaidone]

Teepa, you’re an angel on earth....thank you

[maryjoalsup]

That's certainly a very different perspective. Very helpful.

[abreeroy]

I’d love to hear about how to help dementia patients who “sun down” and feel like they need to leave the care home to go back to their home. 😊

[debraseiling]

I really like the way that Teepa suggests that caregivers & family need to step back and see things from their perspective.

[joescheller]

I am very simple minded how do I deal with wife with lewy who does not accept her condition doesn't think she has any issues. Zero short term now after 6 years. We just lost her fur baby dog now she doesn't understand continually calling for him. This morning woke up screaming and hollering demanding where's Juno in mean destructive manner. Cannot get her to accept tried telling her he went on a visit gone for awhile anything I can think to redirect but nothing works. She doesn't take meds won't take meds as there is nothing wrong with her in her mind

[panicregret]

At the nursing home I work at, we all try to give the residents as much time as we can, I love chatting with them and learning their interests! Unfortunately we are really short staffed, and we can’t spend as much time with them. And bare in mind that it’s not just because “oh we don’t have the time cuz I’m on my phone” or “I just don’t want to give these people attention”. We literally cannot spend as much time with them because it could be putting another resident in danger, and they deserve safety and care just as much as any other resident. I understand the grievances, trust me it makes me very upset too; I’ve seen people give employees to much shit just because we are trying to keep up with everything. And that’s not me saying there isn’t any bad people working, there are in every profession and it’s fair to be angry. But please understand we are doing the best we can for the circumstances; and we love and care about our residents.

[WayTruthLife]

How could anyone watch this and NOT SMILE? My goodness, she is the most adorable thing!
I get this! I'm trying to figure out what my grandpa is doing when he repeatedly clanks the silverware on the glass, mug, plate or bowl.
One time, with a soft, upbeat, positive and curious voice, I asked him why he was doing it and he said "it sounds pretty".
Do you think that is hos true reason he engages in this behavior/ACTIVITY? Or is it his answer at that moment I asked? I find it to be a rather harmless activity, plus, it keeps him occupied and happy.
So, unless I have a major migraine, or someone is sleeping, then grandpa gets to beat his glass drum for quite some time (usually 15 minutes; then he might set it down and pick it back up in 5 minutes, unless we've cleared the table dishes, which is the tactic I use to distract from the realization that I am taking his drum stick (spoon) and drum (coffee mug).
Up until the past few years, he was always one heck of a chit-chatter. He would talk you ear off, when that was something he was capable of. Now that isn't so much an ability for him, one theory I have, as to why he consistently makes music during mealtimes, is that he is looking for a connection with others and or, he desires attention and affirmation from his favorite people...Kind of a, "look at me!; do you see what I can do?!; doesn't this sound pretty?; ***HE LOOKS UP AND OVER AT ME AND &FLASHES BIG SMILE***
Special times. I musn't forget how short our time is, how much I adore him, and what I would want/need if we traded positions.
Am I TRULY in so much of a hurry to get out to the garage to do laundry that I can't stop, acknowledge him and engage in 30 seconds of dialogue? Is it REALLY too much to ask of me, to stop what I'm doing as I walk near, say hello grandpa and make eye contact with him? It really is a quick check in. Visually scan the area for needs/wants and base communication around your visual assessment. Look for and Pick-up dropped napkin...otherwise he will try to and likely fall; is his walker within reach? Does he need a drink refill? Napkins and Kleenex are at his beckon call?Ask questions such as: How is your snack? Are you enjoying your view of the garden? Is there anything I can do you? Would you like to listen to some music?
If you have any feedback for me, please feel free to share it with me, as long as it's positive or constructive.

[deeperthanmemorywithmaryai]

And this switch was beautifully orchestrated for success. Thank you, MaryAiñe

[Victoria]

That was great! Oh, Mrs. Snow you're awesome. May God bless you today and always❤

[anazalazar]

That was amazing. Thank you soo much.
It will help me to assist a lady that is starting to have distressed behaviour.

[shooby]

over the years i have followed your advice and i owe you for truly being able to say i am a great care giver during my work life i have implemented most everything i have learned from you and i want to say thank you for constantly changing the way i give great care.