Screaming Understanding Dementia
“I took my grandfather for lunch at the food court. It was busy so I left him at the table while I went to order food. While I was queuing I heard him scream. I rushed back to him and told him to stop but he wouldn’t. I was so embarrassed I took him straight home. I think the food court was too noisy for him and he was scared sitting at the table on his own. Now if we’re eating out we go early so it’s quiet and we can get a table next to his favourite stall.”
Why does it happen? People with dementia find it difficult to articulate what is wrong. So they often shout or scream to get attention. This is like babies crying when they are hungry or ill. What causes it? Physical causes • Being hungry, thirsty or needing the toilet • Having a wet or soiled diaper • Feeling ill or being in pain • Hearing or seeing things (hallucinations) • Needing help to change how they are lying or sitting • Going through uncomfortable procedures such putting in a feeding tube or urinary catheter