Caregiving Strategies for Behavioral Changes in Alzheimer’s

Caring for a Loved One with Alzheimer’s comes with many challenges, especially when it comes to behavioral changes. As the disease progresses, your Loved One may experience confusion, agitation, or difficulty expressing their needs. Finding ways to connect and support them in these moments can make all the difference. One of the most effective caregiving strategies is the simple yet profound principle: ‘Meet Them Where They Are.’

When we say “Meet Them Where They Are,” we mean embracing your Loved One’s current reality rather than trying to force them into yours. Alzheimer’s affects memory, perception, and communication, so rather than correcting or challenging their thoughts, step into their world with compassion and patience.

For example, if your Loved One believes they need to go to work (even if they retired years ago), instead of reminding them that they no longer have a job, acknowledge their feelings and gently redirect them: “It sounds like work was really important to you. Tell me about your job.” This helps ease anxiety while allowing them to feel heard and valued.

Here are links to tools to support Caregivers in “Meeting Them Where they Are”

• Living in the Moment – a book written to helping you be in the moment
• Dr. Natali Edmonds – learn real tips, strategies and solutions to support Caregivers in this series of podcasts

Engage with Their Interests

Your Loved One may not remember everything the way they once did, but they will still respond to what brings them comfort and joy.

• If they love music, play their favorite songs and sing along.
• If they enjoy nature, take them outside to feel the sunshine and admire the flowers.
• If they like to fold towels or organize items, give them tasks to create a sense of purpose. By engaging with what feels familiar and comforting to them, you create meaningful moments of connection.

Here are a few links to items that might engage your Loved One

• Playmate Pets – Animated Robotic Therapy Dogs & Cats
• The Mind Care Store
• The ALZ Store

Some days will be more challenging than others. Instead of trying to correct your Loved One’s memory or logic, flow with their emotions. If they ask about a relative who has passed, it may not always be helpful to remind them of the loss. Instead, ask them to share a favorite memory about that person. The goal is to reduce distress and nurture positive emotions.

Arguing with someone who has Alzheimer’s can often cause frustration and agitation. Instead of saying, “That’s not true,” try phrases like:

• “That sounds really important to you.”
• “Tell me more about that.”
• “I understand why you feel that way.”

Validating their feelings helps them feel secure and reassured, reducing stress and anxiety.

As Alzheimer’s progresses, verbal communication may become difficult. Pay attention to body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice.

• If they struggle to find words, offer choices: “Would you like tea or coffee?”
• Use visual cues or gestures to help convey messages.
• Speak in a calm, reassuring tone. These small adjustments make a big impact on how well you can connect with your Loved One.

When you step into your Loved One’s world rather than trying to bring them back into yours, you create a caregiving environment filled with patience, kindness, and understanding. The goal is not to “fix” their reality but to support them in a way that makes them feel safe and loved.
Alzheimer’s caregiving is a journey, but by embracing the strategy of ‘Meet Them Where They Are,’ you can navigate the challenges with greater ease and create moments of joy along the way. 💜
Visit our website overview to find many more links and videos designed just for Caregivers. You aren’t alone.