Providing care and support to a loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia can come with unique challenges. The disease causes physical damage to the brain, affecting functions like judgment, memory, and speech. For adult children and caregivers, managing these changes can be difficult. To assist, we’ve compiled a list of do’s and don’ts for caregivers facing some of the most common behavioral issues associated with cognitive decline.
Redirecting Confusion About Going Home
Don’t: When a senior living with Alzheimer’s is confused about their location or when they will be going “home,” avoid lengthy explanations as that can sometimes increase the agitation they’re experiencing.
Do: Instead of attempting to explain that they are no longer living in their own home, try redirecting their attention to a different activity. You could suggest baking cookies together or listening to their favorite old-time music. If redirection doesn’t work, try validating their feelings. For example, acknowledge that they miss home because it is a special place, and ask them to describe their home and what they enjoy about it.
Related blog: Alzheimer’s Wandering Kit for Winter >>
Managing Hurtful Accusations of Stealing
Don’t: One common behavior seen in individuals living with dementia is the tendency to accuse loved ones of stealing from them. This accusation may involve money, a car, or household items. It’s important not to take these accusations personally or let them hurt your feelings. Trying to reason with them or rationalize the situation won’t work when someone is experiencing cognitive changes.
Do: If possible, retrieve what is missing and show your loved one where the item can be found. Add that you understand how upsetting it can be when you’re not able to find something that is important to you.
Refusing to Cooperate with Caregivers
Don’t: If a loved one refuses to cooperate with caregivers during daily tasks, such as showering or getting dressed, avoid using an aggressive tone or attempting to force compliance.
Do: Try to understand what might be preventing them from doing what you’re asking. For instance, individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease often develop a fear of water, which can make showering difficult. They may be more open to taking a bath instead. When it comes to getting dressed, modesty can sometimes be an issue. One helpful approach is to lay out their clothes for the day on the bed in the order they need to be put on. Allowing them to dress independently may reduce embarrassment.
Additional Resources on Alzheimer’s Disease
Want to learn more about communicating with a loved one living with Alzheimer’s disease? Read our blog on dementia communication guidelines.
This blog was originally published in 2021 and updated in 2026.
