This is the third in a four-part series to help shed light on this commonly misdiagnosed form of dementia.
Lewy Body Dementia can be especially cruel and difficult, both for the sufferer and the caregiver. Many techniques that may traditionally work for other dementias will not work for people with Lewy Body Dementia. Let’s go over a few of the major symptoms and how to best handle each one.
Catastrophic Reactions
Behavior cannot be easily redirected when a person with Lewy Body Dementia becomes agitated or exhibits aggression. Compounding this is the fact that their trigger points are a moving target. One day it may be loud music; another it may be feelings of insecurity over a comment; it may change often and their reactions may also vary.
TIP: If your loved one has a catastrophic reaction, you should do the following:
- Remain calm
- Respond to their feelings
- Reassure the person by gently holding their hand or patting their back
- Remove yourself by leaving the room or sitting quietly close by if they do not want to be touched
- Return later when the moment has passed
TIP: Avoid quizzing the person, e.g., “don’t you remember _____?” This may only increase agitation and self-consciousness which could lead to an extreme reaction.
TIP: Make sure your loved one gets some exercise each day! This may help alleviate some of the restlessness that often sparks agitation. Go on a walk, ask them to do simple tasks around the home, or even play a game.
REM Sleep Behavior Disorder
Also known as RBD, this refers to the behavior of a person who acts out their dreams. This is actually one symptom that responds fairly well to medicines such as melatonin, so discuss possible prescription help with your loved one’s doctor. You may also consider enrolling the person in a sleep study to get more information on the severity of the RBD. The sleep study may help identify other possible underlying sleep disorders, such as restless leg syndrome or sleep apnea.
TIP: Make sure no other medications are having an adverse effect on sleep patterns. Check bottle for side effects and other warnings.
TIP: Try to avoid the following to encourage a smoother transition to sleep in the evenings:
- Napping*
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
* If a nap is needed, just make sure it’s short and early in the day
Depression
We cannot stress enough the importance of addressing depression in people with Lewy Body Dementia. There are often periods of lucidity where a person is all too aware of their condition, which only heightens feelings of sadness and hopelessness. They do not want to be a burden on their family or caregivers, and may even contemplate suicide in these seemingly “normal” but fleeting moments. It is extremely important to work with your physician on treating their depression. Antidepressants may be the best solution for your loved one, and can be effective.
