Understanding any behaviour change and what happens before and after the behaviour is very important. Sometimes you can reduce or even prevent certain behaviours. If you pay attention and understand what happens before or “triggers” the behaviour, this can help you to reduce or prevent the behaviour.

Let’s look at the following example

Noor has dementia like the person you care for. Her partner Aman is taking care of her, like you are caring for your family member or friend.

Aman often asks Noor if she can remember who came to visit last week or what she had for dinner yesterday. Noor cannot remember these things and gets agitated. As a result, Aman feels frustrated.

What happens before?:

“Aman is asking Noor questions”

Behaviour:

“Noor can’t answer the questions and gets agitated”

Carer’s response to the behaviour:

“Aman feels frustrated”