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

Kayla has dementia like the person you care for. Her husband Howard is taking care of her, like you are caring for your family member or friend.

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

What happens before?:

“Howard is asking Kayla questions”

Behaviour:

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

Carer’s response to the behaviour:

“Howard feels frustrated”