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
Emotional causes • Needing attention, touch or comfort • Restlessness or boredom • Feeling worried or scared • Depression Their environment • Busy, noisy or crowded places • Being tied down to stop them from hitting or wandering (physical restraints) How can I cope with it? • Try to work out what triggers the screaming and fix it • Attend to their needs as soon as possible • Give them regular meals or snacks to prevent hunger • Start a regular toileting schedule to reduce soiling • Check diapers regularly and clean as soon as possible • Keep the environment quiet and calm
• Play relaxing soft music to reduce fear and anxiety • Get advice from a doctor or pharmacist when taking medicine; some medicine can cause stress and confusion in people with dementia • Speak in a calm and normal voice • Walk up to them slowly from the front so they can see you coming; this will prevent surprises that can be upsetting When should I get help? If the screaming continues even though you have tried these tips, please make an appointment with their doctor for a medical check-up.
Yishun Health is a network of medical institutions and health facilities of the National Healthcare Group. Admiralty Medical Centre • (65) 6807 8000 • www.admiraltymedicalcentre.com.sg Khoo Teck Puat Hospital • (65) 6555 8000 • www.ktph.com.sg Yishun Community Hospital • (65) 6807 8800 • www.yishuncommunityhospital.com.sg The information is correct at the time of printing and subject to revision without further notice.
GRM.IE.09.0517